Ronaldo to continue with Portugal

Cristiano Ronaldo has been called up to the Portugal squad for the first four matches of the UEFA Nations League, according to a list announced by new manager Jorge Jesus.

As expected, the first squad selected by the 71-year-old Portuguese coach included the five-time Ballon d’Or winner, who, at the age of 41, may be playing the final season of his career.

Jesus, who succeeded Spanish manager Roberto Martinez after the 2026 World Cup, oversaw the Portuguese captain last season while serving as coach of Saudi Arabia’s Al-Nassr, where “CR7” continues to play after announcing last August that this season would “most likely” be his last as a professional footballer.

During this summer’s World Cup, the Madeira-born player became the first in history to score goals in six different editions of the tournament. However, the campaign ended in disappointment, as Portugal were eliminated in the round of 16 with a goalless defeat to Spain, who later won the title.

Martinez faced widespread criticism at the time for his persistent reliance on Ronaldo in the starting lineup and for giving very limited playing time to his substitute, Gonçalo Ramos.

Speaking at a press conference, Jesus said of Ronaldo: “He is a player like any other. If he delivers the required performance, he plays; if he doesn’t, he won’t.” He added: “He has a different status because his career is different—he has won five Ballon d’Or awards. But does that influence my decisions? No.”

Among the few notable changes in the 25-man squad announced by Jesus were the returns of Borussia Dortmund striker Fabio Silva and Benfica midfielder João Palhinha.

The list also included Paris Saint-Germain players Vitinha, João Neves, and Nuno Mendes.