New Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus has thrown his support behind Cristiano Ronaldo, saying the veteran forward will continue to be selected for the national team as long as he remains fit and available.
Jesus made the remarks on Friday during his official unveiling by the Portuguese Football Federation, ending speculation over Ronaldo’s international future following Portugal’s disappointing 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign.
The 41-year-old captain came under scrutiny after Portugal’s Round of 16 exit to Spain, with many questioning whether his time with the national team had come to an end. Ronaldo has since indicated that the 2026 tournament would be his final World Cup but is yet to announce whether he will retire from international football.
Addressing reporters, Jesus said Ronaldo’s place in the squad would be based on his fitness and the needs of the team.
“As long as he’s still playing and is fit enough to be selected, I will call him up, within the limits and conditions that I believe are best for the national team,” the 71-year-old coach said.
Jesus revealed that he is yet to hold a formal discussion with Ronaldo about his international future but insisted the five-time Ballon d’Or winner would never become a problem for Portugal.
“I haven’t spoken with Cris yet, but Cristiano is never going to be a problem for the national team or for me. He is a symbol of Portuguese football and a legend whose place in our history is already secured,” he said.
The experienced coach also reflected on the pair’s successful spell together at Saudi Pro League champions Al-Nassr, describing Ronaldo as a consummate professional.
“I really enjoyed working with him over the past year. He’s easy to work with, and we’ll sit down together to discuss what he wants for the future of his career,” Jesus added.
According to the former Al-Nassr manager, Ronaldo had repeatedly expressed his desire to finish his playing career with the Saudi Arabian club.
“He always told me he wanted to end his career at Al-Nassr,” Jesus said.
Jesus, who recently guided Al-Nassr to the Saudi Pro League title before departing in May, has been appointed Portugal’s head coach until after the 2030 FIFA World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by Portugal, Spain and Morocco.
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