Portugal’s captain spoke ahead of the Nations League meeting with Norway after Ronaldo’s departure overshadowed the international break.
Ronaldo left the camp following his omission from the starting line-up against Denmark and later said he would explain his reasons “in time”. The 41-year-old has scored 146 goals in 234 appearances for Portugal.
Manchester United captain Fernandes said he had spoken directly to Ronaldo and rejected suggestions that the dispute should divide the squad.
“To put an end to this matter once and for all, I don’t need to speak with my colleagues,” Fernandes said. “We know how to manage our situations. We have a situation that has nothing to do with the players, and our most important role is to deliver results.”
He added: “I had a conversation with Cris. What I told him is that the most important thing, regardless of what happens, is that he will never cease to be the greatest symbol of our national team and country, for everything he has done in Portugal and around the world.
“He has a reserved place not only among the best of all time, but also in the hearts of the Portuguese people. We cannot divide ourselves; the national team is one, and all parties should resolve their issues behind closed doors. I think that’s how it will be, and that everything will end well on both sides.”
Fernandes also appealed for supporters to avoid taking sides while the dispute between Ronaldo and Jorge Jesus remains unresolved.
“We are out of the matter; we spend a lot of time playing cards and are outside the controversy surrounding this issue, but I ask that the country not be divided, not make choices, and accept all sides.
“Cris will always be the greatest icon of our national team, of world football, and deserves the respect of all Portuguese people, regardless of who likes him more or less.”
Jesus, who managed Ronaldo at Al-Nassr before replacing Roberto Martinez as Portugal coach, also insisted that the national team must remain the priority.
“The focus has to be on the national team above all else,” Jesus said.
“Regarding Norway, what we have to do well is for our people to also be in tune with the flag and the objective. Ronaldo is a symbol of the national team and of Portugal. After the game, there is plenty of time to talk about that.”
Fernandes’ message comes as Portugal attempt to keep the Ronaldo dispute from affecting preparations for another Nations League fixture. The midfielder made clear that, whatever happens next, he does not believe the squad should become divided over the country’s greatest international goalscorer.