PORTO, PORTUGAL: Portugal coach Jorge Jesus said on Sunday that Cristiano Ronaldo can return to the national squad if he chooses.
Jesus left the decision with the 41-year-old forward. Ronaldo remains a candidate for selection if he continues playing for Saudi club Al-Nassr, the coach said.
“If he wants to, he’ll return to the national team,” Jesus told reporters.
His comments followed Portugal’s 2–1 Nations League win over Norway at Estádio do Dragão in Porto. João Cancelo equalised before Gonçalo Ramos scored the late winner from João Félix’s assist. Portugal then held their lead despite Francisco Conceição’s subsequent dismissal.
Jesus’s side became the first team to secure a quarter-final place, with two group games remaining.
Ronaldo left the squad on September 30 after learning he would not start against Denmark. Jesus had kept him on the bench throughout Portugal’s earlier victory over Norway.
In an Instagram message that day, Ronaldo explained that he had decided to leave after speaking with Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) president Pedro Proença. He promised to explain his reasons in due course and wished Portugal and all his teammates luck.
The FPF confirmed his departure and said preparations would continue with the remaining 24 players.
Jesus stressed that Ronaldo should choose how to end his international career. He recalled asking the forward to support the squad during his first call-up, whether he played or stayed on the bench.
After replacing Roberto Martinez following the 2026 World Cup, Jesus had told Ronaldo he needed his presence for those opening matches. He maintained that position despite the player’s departure.
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Ronaldo remains Portugal’s leading scorer and most-capped player. His international career began in 2003, when he made his Portugal debut at 18.
Since then, the former Real Madrid and Manchester United forward has represented Portugal for more than two decades and appeared at six World Cups. Ronaldo has said 2026 is likely to be his final year in football.
Portugal’s next matches take place in November. Jesus offered to speak with Ronaldo before naming that squad, as they had done before the current call-up.
(With input from AFP and RTP)
