Portuguese FA Leader Justifies Ronaldo's Missing of Diogo Jota's Funeral Ceremony
Ronaldo's Absence at Jota's Funeral Defended by Portuguese Football Association
Amidst controversy, the President of the Portuguese Football Association, Pedro Proenca, has defended Cristiano Ronaldo following backlash over his absence at Diogo Jota's funeral.
Ronaldo, the team's longtime captain and talisman, did not attend Jota's funeral, a decision that stirred controversy. However, Proenca stated that Ronaldo chose to stay away from the funeral to avoid diverting attention from the solemnity of the event.
Proenca emphasized that Ronaldo has always been more than just a team captain, playing an integral part off the pitch as well. He asserted that Ronaldo has always been a part of the team in every way that matters.
This sentiment was shared by Ronaldo's elder sister, Katia, who stated that Ronaldo feared his presence might draw undue media focus and take the spotlight away from mourning Jota. According to Proenca, Ronaldo felt the loss of Jota deeply, as they were true teammates.
The reaction to Ronaldo's absence was supportive, with Proenca calling it "an immense injustice" to suggest Ronaldo was detached. He stressed that Ronaldo remained close emotionally and was one of those who felt Jota's loss the most.
However, critics accused Ronaldo of turning his back on his teammate in a moment of collective mourning. Kátia Aveiro, Ronaldo's sister, highlighted that the criticism was unfair and shameful, urging people to focus on the family's pain rather than on Ronaldo's absence.
The Portuguese Football Association and close supporters defended Ronaldo, emphasizing his emotional connection and leadership. Proenca reiterated that Ronaldo never abandoned the Jota family, despite his physical absence from the funeral.
Notably, several top Portuguese stars, including Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva, and Ruben Dias, attended Jota's funeral.
In summary, Ronaldo’s decision was based on respect and a desire to avoid media distraction during a sensitive time. The Portuguese Football Association and close supporters defended him, emphasizing his emotional connection and leadership.
- While numerous Portuguese players attended Diogo Jota's funeral, Ronaldo, known for his role in Europe's elite leagues, such as the Premier League, chose to stay away, citing a concern about media attention.
- Despite criticism suggesting he turned his back on his teammate during a moment of collective mourning, Katia Aveiro, Ronaldo's sister, defended him, highlighting that his response was motivated by respect and the desire to avoid distractions.
- With his significant role in the Portuguese national team, Ronaldo, the talisman of Naija football, has continually demonstrated both on and off the pitch that he is more than just a team captain, always being a part of the team emotionally.
