Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus has explained his decision to include Cristiano Ronaldo in his first national team squad, saying the forward’s current performances will determine whether he continues to play.
Jesus named the 41-year-old Al-Nassr captain in his 25-man squad for Portugal’s upcoming UEFA Nations League fixtures against Wales, Norway and Denmark.
Speaking after announcing the squad on Friday, Jesus said Ronaldo would be treated like every other player when it comes to selection.
“His performance is what matters. The past doesn’t count,” Jesus said, according to football transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano.
The coach acknowledged Ronaldo’s exceptional record, including his five Ballon d’Or awards, but said those achievements would not influence his decisions.
“He has a different status and has won five Ballon d’Or awards, but does that influence my decisions? No,” Jesus said.
He added that Ronaldo remained a special player but stressed that selection would depend on what he produces on the pitch.
“If he is performing well, he will play. If he isn’t, he won’t,” Jesus said.
The inclusion of Ronaldo also puts an end, for now, to speculation that the veteran forward’s international career could have ended following Portugal’s elimination from the 2026 World Cup.
Jesus already knows Ronaldo from their time together at Al-Nassr and will now begin his tenure as Portugal coach with a Nations League meeting against Wales on September 24.
The new coach’s comments make clear that Ronaldo has been selected for the squad, while his continued involvement in the starting team will depend on his performances under Jesus.
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