Cristiano Ronaldo shares touching embrace with Ricardo Carvalho following family tragedy
The Portugal squad held an emotional tribute for assistant coach Ricardo Carvalho after the passing of his father, Manuel Ribeiro de Carvalho, aged 69.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0 / Author: Ludovic Péron
Tragedy has struck the Portugal national team camp in the United States. The Portuguese Football Federation confirmed the passing of Manuel Ribeiro, the 69-year-old father of assistant coach Ricardo Carvalho.
During a training session in Florida, the squad paused their preparations for the upcoming World Cup round-of-32 match against Croatia to hold a tribute. Players and staff gathered in a circle to show their support for the 48-year-old coach. Cristiano Ronaldo shared a heartfelt embrace with his former international teammate, reflecting the strong bond within the group.
Ricardo Carvalho has since departed the North American base to be with his grieving family. The Federation issued an official message of solidarity, expressing deep condolences for the loss of Manuel Ribeiro de Carvalho.
Carvalho has been a vital part of Roberto Martinez's coaching staff since 2023. His tactical input has been instrumental in maintaining defensive stability throughout the tournament. It remains uncertain if the former defender will return to the camp should Portugal progress further in the knockout stages.