Cristiano Ronaldo joined Portugal's squad in offering comfort to Ricardo Carvalho after his father's passing. The former Chelsea centre-back, now serving as Roberto Martinez's assistant, learnt of the tragedy at the team's World Cup training base in Miami and is set to travel home for the funeral.
Moment of silence at training
Carvalho remained with the squad for Monday's training session, during which Portugal's players observed a moment of silence for their colleague's father, Manuel Ribeiro de Carvalho, who passed away aged 69. In a touching gesture, the entire squad formed a circle, linked arms and lowered their heads in silent tribute to Carvalho.
Ronaldo wrapped his arms around his former team-mate, who won 89 caps between 2003 and 2016, while several other colleagues also offered their support. The emotional scenes unfolded during the opening stages of Portugal's final training session in Miami.
Official condolences
In a statement, the Portuguese Football Federation said: "The Portuguese Football Federation expresses its deepest sorrow for the passing of Manuel Ribeiro de Carvalho, father of Ricardo Carvalho, assistant coach of the National Team, at the age of 69. In this moment of profound sadness, the President of the Portuguese Football Federation, the Board of Directors and all FPF employees extend their deepest condolences to Ricardo Carvalho and his entire family, sharing in their grief and wishing them strength to face this irreparable loss."
Portugal's national team posted on social media: "We're with you. Strength, Ricardo Carvalho," alongside two photographs of the squad paying their respects.
Press conference tribute
During a press conference with Joao Felix ahead of the round of 32 tie against Croatia, a national team adviser once more drew attention to the bereavement suffered by Carvalho. "I just want to offer my and Joao's condolences to Ricardo Carvalho, whose father passed away," said Francisco Trigo de Abreu. "He remains with us. We wanted to express our sadness because he was a great colleague and a great friend."
Shortly after the press conference concluded, the Portuguese Football Federation confirmed that Carvalho would return to Portugal to be present at his father's funeral.
Upcoming match
Portugal's preparations press on ahead of their last-16 showdown with Croatia. The two nations will meet in Toronto on Thursday, with Carvalho's participation remaining in doubt. The 48-year-old has been a member of Martinez's backroom staff since 2023, having previously served under Andre Villas-Boas at Marseille.
