Vitinha hopes Cristiano Ronaldo returns to Portugal after 'turbulent' international break

Vitinha hopes Ronaldo returns to Portugal fold

Cristiano Ronaldo's immediate future with Portugal is in doubt, but compatriot Vitinha hopes to see the country's record scorer back in the squad for the November break.

Vitinha said he hopes "everything gets resolved" between Ronaldo and Portugal boss Jorge Jesus after a "turbulent" international break. Speaking after Paris Saint-Germain's Champions League win over Manchester City, the midfielder was asked about the situation and said it had been a difficult time for the squad.

"It was a turbulent international break – full of high emotions," Vitinha told TNT Sports. "For my part, I just hope everything gets resolved for the best. I hope he [Ronaldo] returns and that everything turns out fine."

"The truth is, that's what we all want. I hope he comes back and everything is sorted out," he added.

How the dispute unfolded

Ronaldo was an unused substitute during Portugal's 2-1 win over Norway and subsequently left the squad during the extended break. The 41-year-old released a statement apologising to his team-mates, but accused Jesus of "breaking his word" after leaving him on the bench.

Ronaldo also said he would accept whatever punishment Portugal's Football Federation (FPF) impose, and the FPF has provisionally suspended their captain.

Portugal's position

Ronaldo has scored 146 goals in 234 appearances for Portugal, more than any other player for his country. Portugal have already qualified for the Nations League quarter-finals after winning all four of their matches during the previous break.

In November, Jesus' side face Denmark and Wales as they look to clinch top spot in Group A4.