Jorge Jesus Leaves Door Open for Cristiano Ronaldo to Return to Portugal Squad - Tempo.co English
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Portugal national team coach Jorge Jesus has left the door open for Cristiano Ronaldo to return to the Seleção das Quinas following the superstar's decision to leave the team's training camp in Copenhagen.
This statement was made after Portugal defeated Norway 2-1 in their fourth match of the 2026/27 UEFA Nations League on Monday, October 5, 2026.
"I don't know what will happen. For me, everything is still open. Cris has to decide what he wants to do with his own life," said Jorge Jesus, as quoted by Fabrizio Romano and cited by Antara.
Jesus emphasized that Ronaldo could still be considered for future Portugal squads, provided he remains active at the club level and retains the desire to represent his country.
"If Cris is still playing and wants to be in the national team, why not?" Jesus said.
These comments follow Ronaldo's departure from the Portugal training camp during the international break.
The 41-year-old forward was an unused substitute when Portugal beat Norway 2-1 on matchday two of the 2026/27 UEFA Nations League on September 28.
Ronaldo's departure from the camp sparked speculation regarding his future with the national team.
He reportedly left the squad after speaking with Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) President Pedro Proenca, stating that he would explain his reasons at a later time.
However, Jesus sought to defuse the situation. The 72-year-old coach stated there was no conflict between him and Ronaldo, describing the incident merely as a misunderstanding that could be easily resolved.
"There isn't one. It was just a misunderstanding. In my opinion, the issue is easily resolved," Jesus said.
Jesus's remarks indicate that the door to the national team remains open for Ronaldo. The coach remains open to the possibility of recalling the Portugal captain should he continue playing at the club level and wish to pursue his international career.
Cristiano Ronaldo has previously expressed his desire to continue representing Portugal. CR7 still harbors great ambitions in his career, including the goal of scoring 1,000 career goals before concluding his journey as a professional footballer.
