Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus has left the door firmly open for Cristiano Ronaldo to return to the national team, insisting that the veteran captain should decide for himself whether he wants to continue his international career.
Ronaldo left Portugal’s training camp in Copenhagen during the current international break, prompting fresh speculation over his future with the national side. Despite his departure, Jesus has played down the situation and made clear that he does not regard it as a definitive break between the player and the team.
Speaking to RTP after Portugal secured their place in the UEFA Nations League quarter-finals, Jesus described Ronaldo’s departure as a ‘misunderstanding’ that could be resolved without difficulty. He also stressed that there was no resentment towards the captain and that the possibility of his return remained open.
Jesus said he could not predict what would happen next, but believed every option was still available. If Ronaldo wants to continue playing and decides to join the next Portugal squad, the coach said there would be no reason why he should not do so. The final decision, he made clear, belongs to Ronaldo.
The coach was also asked whether he had discussed the matter with Ronaldo and when the situation might be settled. Jesus said he did not yet know. With the latest match only just completed, he suggested that there was no need to rush and that the next steps would become clearer in due course.
Ronaldo’s decision to leave camp before Portugal’s match against Norway has therefore not closed the door on his international career. Jesus’ comments indicate that Portugal remain prepared to consider the captain for future squads if he chooses to continue representing his country.
The uncertainty surrounding Ronaldo comes at a particularly positive moment for Portugal under Jesus. Since taking charge, the coach has overseen four matches and his team have won all four, giving him a perfect start to his tenure.
After the victory over Norway, Jesus said the priority had been to secure the result needed to confirm Portugal’s place in the Nations League quarter-finals. The objective was achieved, although he acknowledged that the Norway fixture had been less difficult than the previous encounter with Denmark.
Jesus admitted that even with strong confidence in his squad, he had not expected such an impressive beginning when he took the job. Four consecutive victories have strengthened his belief that Portugal possess enough quality and resilience to achieve their targets.
There are still two matches to be played before the next squad is announced, meaning the situation surrounding Ronaldo has time to develop. His absence would inevitably leave a significant gap in terms of experience and leadership, but Jesus has indicated that Portugal’s plans are not dependent on one individual.
For now, Ronaldo’s international future remains unresolved. Portugal have not shut the door on their captain, while Jesus has made his position clear: if Ronaldo wants to return, the decision will ultimately be his.
