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Cristiano Ronaldo is Portugal's most capped player as well as highest goal-scorer. (Picture Credit: AP)
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News18•05-10-2026, 07:28
Ronaldo Can Return to Portugal Squad If He Wishes, Says Coach Jorge Jesus
  • •Portugal coach Jorge Jesus stated Cristiano Ronaldo can return to the national team squad if he wants to, despite his recent walkout.
  • •Ronaldo left the squad last week after being benched for Portugal's first win over Norway and learning he wouldn't start against Denmark.
  • •Jesus confirmed that if Ronaldo is playing for Al-Nassr, he will be eligible for selection in the next call-up.
  • •The coach emphasized that Ronaldo will decide his future with the national team, and they can discuss it before the next matches in November.
  • •Portugal secured a spot in the Nations League quarter-finals without Ronaldo, becoming the first team to qualify.

Key Questions Answered

Yes, Portugal coach Jorge Jesus stated that 41-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo can return to the national team squad if he wishes to do so and continues playing for Al-Nassr, leaving the final decision entirely up to the player.

The dispute began when Jesus left Ronaldo on the bench for Portugal's first win over Norway, leading the veteran attacker to walk out of the squad after learning he would not start against Denmark.

In Ronaldo's absence, Portugal successfully defeated Norway and became the first team to secure a place in the Nations League quarter-finals with two group games still remaining.