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Jorge Jesus Leaves Door Open for Cristiano Ronaldo Portugal Return

Posted : 05 October 2026

Portugal coach Jorge Jesus has confirmed that Cristiano Ronaldo remains welcome in the national team despite the veteran forward’s abrupt departure from the squad last week.

Jesus said the 41-year-old can be selected again if he is playing for Al-Nassr and wants to return. The coach stressed that the decision ultimately rests with Ronaldo, with Portugal’s next international matches scheduled for November.

The disagreement began after Ronaldo was left on the bench during Portugal’s Nations League victory over Norway. After learning that he would again not start against Denmark, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner left the national team camp ahead of the match.

Despite the controversy, Portugal responded strongly without their captain. The reigning Nations League champions defeated Denmark 4-2 before beating Norway 2-1, securing their place in the quarterfinals with a perfect record in Group A4.

Jesus, who previously coached Ronaldo at Al-Nassr, said he had made it clear from his first squad selection that he wanted the experienced forward close to the team, whether he was starting or not. He also said Ronaldo should have the freedom to decide how he wants his international career to end.

“If he wants to, he’ll return to the national team,” Jesus said, adding that the two could speak before the next squad announcement if Ronaldo wished to do so.

The Portugal coach also acknowledged Ronaldo’s enormous importance to the national team. The forward is Portugal’s record goalscorer and most-capped player, having represented the country for more than two decades and appeared at six World Cups.

Ronaldo has previously indicated that 2026 could “probably” be his final year as a professional footballer, making the latest dispute particularly significant as he considers the closing chapter of his international career.

For now, Jesus has made his position clear: the door remains open, but Ronaldo will decide whether he walks back through it.

 

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