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Miami Gardens Today
By the People, for the People
Bruno Fernandes Laments Ronaldo's Absence for Portugal Friendlies
Star midfielder expresses disappointment over missing chance to see Ronaldo play in Mexico and the U.S.
Mar. 23, 2026 at 12:07am
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With Cristiano Ronaldo ruled out of Portugal's upcoming friendlies against Mexico and the USMNT due to injury, teammate Bruno Fernandes has expressed his regret over the veteran striker's absence. Fernandes acknowledged the excitement surrounding Ronaldo's potential return to North America and the disappointment of fans who were hoping to see him play. The Manchester United captain also discussed the significance of the matches and the possibility of him taking over the captaincy in Ronaldo's absence.
Why it matters
Ronaldo's star power is a major draw for Portugal's national team, and his absence will likely impact attendance and interest in the friendlies. The matches also serve as important preparation for the 2026 World Cup, where Portugal is scheduled to play group stage games in the U.S. and Mexico.
The details
Ronaldo was left off Portugal's squad for the March international window due to a hamstring injury he is still recovering from. Fernandes, who plays alongside Ronaldo at the club level with Manchester United, lamented the fact that fans in Mexico and the U.S. won't get to see the Portuguese icon in person. With Bernardo Silva and Rúben Dias also absent, Fernandes could be in line to captain the national team for the first time in Ronaldo's absence.
- The friendlies against Mexico and the USMNT are scheduled for March 2026, ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
The players
Bruno Fernandes
The Manchester United captain and star midfielder for the Portugal national team.
Cristiano Ronaldo
The veteran striker and longtime captain of the Portugal national team, who is currently recovering from a hamstring injury and will miss the upcoming friendlies.
Roberto Martínez
The head coach of the Portugal national team, who decided to leave Ronaldo off the squad for the March friendlies.
What they’re saying
“We are very excited to play in such a legendary stadium. For us, it's going to be a great trip to also get to know the country, the climate, and where we might eventually play later on in the World Cup.”
— Bruno Fernandes, Manchester United Captain
“For us, I obviously know that the people wanted to see Cristiano because he is the main figure of our national team, and of football as well. I feel very sorry that they won't be able to see him up close, but it will still be a very good match between two great national teams.”
— Bruno Fernandes, Manchester United Captain
What’s next
If Ronaldo is able to recover from his injury in time, he could potentially rejoin the Portugal squad for later matches or the 2026 World Cup.
The takeaway
Ronaldo's absence is a disappointment for fans hoping to see the Portuguese icon in North America, but the friendlies against Mexico and the USMNT will still provide valuable preparation for Portugal ahead of the 2026 World Cup, where they are scheduled to play group stage matches in the U.S. and Mexico.
