Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus has indicated that Cristiano Ronaldo can still return to the national team if he wishes, despite the recent controversy surrounding his substitution. Ronaldo, 41, walked out on his teammates after learning he would not start against Denmark. Jesus stated that Ronaldo remains eligible for selection, following Portugal's victory over Norway, which secured their place in the Nations League quarter-finals.
Jesus expressed his desire to have Ronaldo involved in the national team, emphasizing that the decision to return lies with the player himself. He mentioned that Ronaldo will be considered for selection if he continues to play for his Saudi Arabian club, Al-Nassr. Jesus also stated that he is open to speaking with Ronaldo before Portugal's next matches in November, should the player wish to discuss his international future.
The dispute began when Jesus left Ronaldo on the bench for Portugal's first victory over Norway, leading to Ronaldo's subsequent walkout. Despite this, Jesus emphasized that Ronaldo is Portugal's all-time leading scorer and most-capped player, having made his international debut in 2003 at just 18 years old. Jesus expressed his admiration for Ronaldo, stating that he wants the player to end his international career on his own terms.
Jesus, who replaced Roberto Martinez as Portugal coach after the 2026 World Cup, reiterated his desire to have Ronaldo involved in the team. He mentioned that he had made his intentions clear to Ronaldo, stating that he needs the player's experience and leadership, whether he plays or not. Jesus also acknowledged Ronaldo's significant contributions to Portuguese football, having represented the country at six World Cups.
Ronaldo's international future remains uncertain, with the player indicating that this could be his final year in football. Jesus has left the decision firmly in Ronaldo's hands, stating that the player will decide how he wants to proceed with his international career. This development has sparked interest among fans, who are eager to see whether Ronaldo will continue to represent Portugal.
In Ronaldo's absence, Portugal secured their place in the Nations League quarter-finals, becoming the first team to qualify from the group stage. Jesus expressed his satisfaction with the team's performance, emphasizing that they have achieved a significant milestone. He also acknowledged that Ronaldo's presence will be crucial in the team's future endeavors, should he choose to continue his international career.
The situation surrounding Ronaldo's international future will continue to be closely monitored by fans and the media. With Jesus leaving the decision in Ronaldo's hands, the player's next move will be eagerly anticipated. As Portugal prepares for their next matches in November, the team's dynamics will be closely watched, particularly in light of Ronaldo's potential return to the squad.
Key points
- Cristiano Ronaldo can still return to the Portugal team if he wishes, despite walking out on teammates after being benched against Denmark.
- Portugal coach Jorge Jesus has expressed his desire to have Ronaldo involved in the national team, emphasizing that the decision to return lies with the player himself.
- Ronaldo's international future remains uncertain, with the player indicating that this could be his final year in football.
