Cristiano Ronaldo can return to Portugal team if he wants, says Jesus

What the report says

Cristiano Ronaldo could return to Portugal’s national team if he chooses, coach Jorge Jesus said after the team’s latest Nations League match, according to Al Jazeera. The comments came amid uncertainty over Ronaldo’s future after he left the squad during the current international window following a disagreement over his role and selection.

Al Jazeera reported that Portugal won 2-1 away to Norway, a result that helped the team reach the quarterfinals of the 2026-27 UEFA Nations League. Ronaldo was not in the lineup for that match after being left on the bench earlier in the campaign and then departing the camp when told he would again start as a substitute. Jesus said he would be willing to include the 41-year-old forward in future call-ups if Ronaldo wants to continue, and that the final decision rests with the player.

The story also highlighted efforts inside the Portugal camp to calm speculation about a split. Midfielder Bruno Fernandes defended Ronaldo’s place in the team and urged the public not to turn the issue into a broader divide. Jesus, who recently took over after Roberto Martinez, said he had told Ronaldo he still wanted him involved, whether or not he played.

Ronaldo has represented Portugal since 2003 and remains the team’s all-time leading scorer and most-capped player. Al Jazeera said Portugal’s next matches are in November, leaving time for the situation to develop before the next squad selection.