Portugal manager Jorge Jesus has stated that Cristiano Ronaldo remains eligible to return to the national team if he chooses, following the striker’s controversial departure from the recent Nations League camp.
Ronaldo, who holds the all-time records for most goals (146) and appearances (234) for his country, left the squad in Lisbon after being named as an unused substitute against Norway. The 41-year-old Al-Nassr forward was further upset when he was not recalled to play against Denmark, prompting him to announce his exit from camp.
Speaking after Portugal’s 2-1 victory over Norway secured their spot in the quarter-finals, Jesus emphasized that while the door remains open, the initiative belongs to the player.
“If he wants to, he’ll return to the national team,” Jesus said. “We can talk before the next call-up, but Cris is the one who’s going to decide.”
The manager had previously indicated that he would address the situation after the final group stage match. Jesus, who also manages Ronaldo at the club level, reaffirmed that he does not hold a grudge against the veteran captain.
In a social media post after leaving the camp, Ronaldo wrote: “In due course, I will tell the truth to all the Portuguese people about my reasons for leaving the national team, to which I have always been dedicated.”
While Ronaldo was sidelined, AC Milan forward Goncalo Ramos has started in his place and scored in all three matches. Teammates have publicly welcomed the possibility of his return. Joao Cancelo described Ronaldo as the best player in Portugal’s history, while Nuno Mendes added: “Any player who comes to the national team is welcome, obviously. If Cris returns, we’ll be here to receive him with open arms.”
Portugal’s next Nations League fixtures are a home match against Denmark on November 14, followed by a trip to face Wales three days later.
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