Cristiano Ronaldo has remained at the heart of Portugal’s plans after being selected in Jorge Jesus’ first 25-man squad, dispelling doubts that the 41-year-old’s international career might end after Spain’s July World Cup victory.
The announcement, made on 18 September 2026, gives Jesus an immediate answer to months of uncertainty surrounding one of European football’s most enduring figures. Ronaldo’s place in the squad for the forthcoming Nations League campaign suggests that Portugal’s new coach intends to rely on the Al-Nassr striker as he begins his tenure.
Jesus begins with familiar face
Jesus, 72, succeeded Roberto Martinez, who resigned following Portugal’s World Cup elimination. His decision to include Ronaldo is unsurprising given their recent history: the two worked together at Al-Nassr last season, helping the Saudi club win the Pro League for the first time in seven years.
That shared success creates a natural continuity between Portugal’s previous and present regimes. Yet selection is not a guarantee of playing time or a permanent place in Jesus’ long-term plans. It is, however, a clear indication that Ronaldo has not been written off after an emotionally difficult World Cup.
For now, Ronaldo is staying.
His inclusion also carries symbolic weight. Jesus inherits a team containing established leaders and a new generation, while Ronaldo represents Portugal’s most prominent footballing legacy. Bringing him back immediately allows the coach to combine institutional memory with the task of reshaping the squad.
Ronaldo’s international future remains open
Portugal’s campaign at this summer’s World Cup ended in the round of 16 after defeat by Spain, who ultimately won the tournament. Ronaldo had previously announced that the World Cup would be his last at that competition, but he declined to give a definitive answer about his future with the national side.
When asked whether he would continue representing Portugal, he said: “I will meet the family and take decisions with a calm head.”
The response left the possibility of retirement open and prompted comparisons with Ronaldo’s long-standing rival, Lionel Messi, who has withdrawn from international football. Ronaldo’s inclusion in Jesus’ opening squad has not removed every question, but it decisively weakens the argument that his country career is over.
He has scored 146 goals in 233 appearances for Portugal, a record that continues to shape expectations of him. Age, nevertheless, remains central to the debate. Ronaldo will turn 42 before next summer’s Nations League finals and will be 43 by Euro 2028.
Former Portugal team-mate Pepe still holds the European Championship age record, having played his final tournament match at 41 years and 130 days during Euro 2024
