Newly appointed Portugal’s national football team head coach Jorge Jesus attends his official presentation at the Portuguese Football Federation headquarters in Oeiras, on July 10, 2026. (Photo by PEDRO ROCHA / AFP)
New Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus has said Cristiano Ronaldo will continue to be considered for national team selection as long as he remains fit, available and capable of contributing to the squad.
Speaking during his official unveiling on Friday, Jesus dismissed suggestions that the veteran forward could become a problem for the team, describing Ronaldo as an enduring symbol of Portuguese football.
“As long as he’s playing and is in a condition to be selected, I will call him up, within certain limits and under the conditions that I believe are best for the national team,” Jesus told reporters.
The 71-year-old revealed that he has not yet spoken with Ronaldo about his international future but said the pair would soon discuss the next stage of the forward’s career.
“I haven’t spoken with Cris yet. Cris will never be a problem for the national team, nor for me,” he said.
“Cris is a symbol of Portuguese football. He is a symbol of the national team and will forever be part of its history.”
Ronaldo, 41, came under criticism following Portugal’s Round of 16 exit to Spain at the 2026 FIFA World Cup under former coach Roberto Martínez. After the tournament, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner suggested it was likely his final World Cup but has yet to confirm whether he will continue representing Portugal.
Jesus, who worked with Ronaldo at Saudi Pro League champions Al-Nassr before leaving the club in May, said he enjoyed coaching the former Manchester United and Real Madrid star.
“I had great pleasure working with him this past year. He’s very easy to work with,” Jesus said.
“We’re going to have a conversation about what he wants to do with the future of his career.”
The Portuguese coach also disclosed that Ronaldo had repeatedly expressed his desire to finish his playing career at Al-Nassr.
“He always told me, ‘I’m going to end my career at Al-Nassr,’” Jesus added.
Jesus has been appointed Portugal’s head coach through the 2030 FIFA World Cup, which will be co-hosted by Portugal, Spain and Morocco.
