Jorge Jesus leaves door open for Ronaldo’s Portugal return

Speaking after Portugal’s 2-1 Nations League victory over Norway secured a quarter-final place, Jesus acknowledged that he did not know what the 41-year-old intended to do next.

“I don’t know what Cristiano will decide. I have said what I needed to say. For me, this has never been a problem. Having a player who is an icon like him does not mean I have to concede anything as a coach. Nothing happened that called my authority into question.”

Ronaldo’s departure earlier in the international window prompted uncertainty over whether he would represent Portugal again. Jesus nevertheless made clear that a return remained possible when the squad reconvenes in November.

“As far as I am concerned, Cristiano will be eligible for selection when the next squad is announced, provided he is playing. If he wants to, he will return to the national team. You cannot break a year-long friendship over a situation that I do not even understand.”

“This whole issue only arose because it was him, because he did or did not warm up. That happens to every player. Cristiano is different; he is an icon, but for me, that has never been a problem.”

Portugal have two more Nations League fixtures scheduled for November, having already secured their place in the knockout stage with victory over Norway.

Asked about the value of meeting Ronaldo before the next international window, Jesus supported the idea while stressing that reconciliation required both men’s involvement.

“I agree, but that does not depend on me. Both people have to reach an understanding.”

“The most important thing is that Portugal have beaten one of the strongest teams in Europe. Let’s wait and see. The head coach will make his choices based on what the young players show at their clubs.”

Bruno Fernandes, who captained Portugal against Norway, had addressed the situation earlier in the week, describing Ronaldo as the country’s “greatest icon”.

Jesus endorsed that assessment and said he had encouraged the forward to consider how he wanted his international career to end.

“I completely agree with what Bruno Fernandes said. That is my view too. One of the things I told Cristiano was that he could not end his international career after losing the World Cup final and leaving the pitch in tears.”

The coach also revealed that Ronaldo would have featured against Norway had events unfolded differently.

“He would have played today, but because of everything that happened, the situation changed. Everything has been made clear. I am the head coach, I select whoever I want, and I do not ask anyone’s opinion about whom I should select or who should play.”

Jesus remained equally firm when the question of an apology arose.

“It was because the player was warming up. Now, apologise for what and to whom? I am not apologising to anyone.”

Portugal’s progress on the pitch has therefore brought no definitive resolution over Ronaldo’s future. Jesus has left a route back into the squad, but whether the veteran forward takes it remains uncertain.