Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus has suggested that Cristiano Ronaldo may no longer start every match, with the veteran forward’s fitness and training performance set to influence his selection.
Jesus said he has already discussed Ronaldo’s playing time with the 41-year-old striker, adding that the player’s physical condition will be assessed before Portugal’s Nations League clash with Norway.
Speaking to O Jogo, Jesus said Ronaldo’s experience remained important but noted that his age meant the coaching staff had to carefully manage his workload.
“I have already discussed this with him. He played 65 minutes, and I will assess his condition to determine if he starts or comes off the bench,” Jesus said.
The Portugal coach added that Ronaldo’s training performances would also play a role in deciding whether he starts.
“Regardless of our preferences, Cris is not Joao Neves, who is 20 years old and capable of playing consecutive matches every three days. We must consider all factors, but he is among the players whose training performance will provide valuable insight,” he added.
Ronaldo started Portugal’s opening Group Four fixture in the UEFA Nations League A, a 1-0 victory over Wales.
However, the forward endured a relatively quiet outing and saw a goal ruled out for offside before being replaced by Goncalo Ramos in the 67th minute.
Jesus subsequently explained the decision to withdraw the former Manchester United and Real Madrid star after the match.
Ronaldo will now hope to make an impact when Portugal take on Norway at the Ullevaal Stadion in Oslo on Sunday.
Norway head into the encounter after recently recording victories over Denmark and Brazil, setting up a challenging test for the Portuguese side.