Cristiano Ronaldo remains eligible for a return to the Portugal national team despite leaving the squad’s training camp amid tensions with head coach Jorge Jesus, who has made clear that the door is still open to the veteran forward.
Speaking after Portugal secured their place in the Nations League quarter-finals with a victory over Norway on Sunday, Jesus said Ronaldo could be considered for the team’s next international fixtures if he wants to return.
The situation followed a turbulent week for the 41-year-old forward. Ronaldo was left on the bench by Jesus for Portugal’s first match against Norway. He was then informed that he would not start against Denmark on Wednesday, after which he left the national team camp.
The decision immediately raised questions about Ronaldo’s relationship with the new coach and his position within Portugal’s plans. Jesus, however, has indicated that the incident has not resulted in a permanent break between the player and the national side.
“If Chris is playing for Al-Nassr when the next squad is selected, he will certainly be considered. If he wants to, he will return to the national team,” Jesus told reporters.
The coach also said he would be willing to speak with Ronaldo before Portugal’s next matches in November. Such a discussion could give both the player and the coach an opportunity to address the circumstances surrounding his departure from the camp.
“We can talk before the next match, as we did last time. But the decision has to be Chris’s,” Jesus said.
The comments leave Ronaldo with the choice of whether he wants to continue his international career under Jesus. While the coach has made clear that selection remains possible, he has also stressed that the initiative must ultimately come from the player.
Ronaldo holds a historic position in Portuguese football. He is the country’s all-time leading goalscorer and its most-capped player, having spent much of his career as a central figure in the national team. His longevity has made him a distinctive presence in Portuguese football, with his international career extending well beyond the period normally associated with elite forwards.
Jesus took charge of Portugal after the 2026 World Cup, replacing Roberto Martinez. During the early part of his tenure, the new coach had continued to regard Ronaldo as an important component of his plans.
The latest episode has nevertheless introduced uncertainty over how frequently Ronaldo might feature and what role he would be given if he returns. His omission from the starting line-up against Norway and the subsequent decision to leave camp have highlighted the need for clarity between the player and coaching staff.
For Portugal, qualification for the Nations League quarter-finals provides some immediate stability, but attention will now turn towards the next international window. If Ronaldo remains available and chooses to return, Jesus has indicated that he will be considered.
The final decision, therefore, rests with Ronaldo. Portugal’s most prolific international scorer still has a route back into the squad, but whether he takes it will depend on his own decision and discussions with the coach before the team’s next matches.
