Cristiano Ronaldo has been included in Portugal’s latest squad as new head coach Jorge Jesus prepares for the country’s upcoming UEFA Nations League fixtures.
The 41-year-old captain’s selection comes as Portugal begin a new chapter under Jesus, who was appointed following the team’s elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Cristiano Ronaldo inclusion has attracted attention amid continued questions about his international future, particularly after he confirmed that the 2026 World Cup would be his final appearance at the tournament.
However, his latest call-up confirms that the veteran forward remains part of Portugal’s immediate plans as the team prepares for its Nations League campaign.
Jorge Jesus Begins Portugal Era With Ronaldo
Jesus has made his approach to squad selection clear, insisting that players will be judged on their performances rather than their reputations or past achievements.
The Portuguese coach has emphasised that Ronaldo will be treated like every other player, despite his remarkable achievements and status as one of the country’s most recognisable footballers.
Jesus previously worked with Ronaldo at Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr, giving the pair an existing professional relationship ahead of their reunion with Portugal.
Speaking about his selection policy, Jesus stressed that Cristiano Ronaldo Ronaldo past achievements would not guarantee him a place in the starting line-up.
The manager explained that the forward’s performances would determine his involvement, signalling a competitive environment as Portugal begin their new campaign.
Their reunion will be closely followed as Jesus begins implementing his ideas and establishing his preferred team selection.
Cristiano Ronaldo experience and leadership could remain important to Portugal, although his role in the starting line-up will depend on the manager’s decisions.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s International Future Remains in Focus
Ronaldo’s selection comes amid continued interest in how much longer he intends to represent Portugal.
The former Manchester United, Real Madrid and Juventus forward had indicated that the 2026 World Cup would be his final appearance at the competition.
Portugal’s World Cup campaign ended with a 1–0 defeat to Spain in the Round of 16, bringing their tournament journey to a close.
However, Ronaldo has not announced his retirement from international football, leaving the door open for further appearances with the national team.
His latest inclusion gives him another opportunity to extend his international career and contribute to Portugal’s next campaign.
Cristiano Ronaldo remains Portugal’s record international goalscorer and one of the most decorated players in the history of the national team.
His continued presence also provides Jesus with an experienced option as Portugal look to maintain their competitiveness against some of Europe’s leading national teams.
Four New Faces in Portugal’s Squad
While Cristiano Ronaldo inclusion has attracted considerable attention, Jesus has also introduced new names as he begins shaping the squad.
The new additions include Samuel Soares, Nuno Tavares, João Palhinha and Fábio Silva.
Soares provides another goalkeeping option, while Tavares adds defensive depth. Palhinha offers midfield experience, and Fábio Silva gives the coach another attacking option.
The selections provide opportunities for players to establish themselves under the new manager.
Portugal’s squad also features established internationals, including Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva, Rúben Dias, João Neves, Vitinha and Rafael Leão.
The combination of experienced players and new additions gives Jesus several options as he prepares for the upcoming fixtures.
Portugal’s Upcoming Nations League Fixtures
Portugal are preparing for a demanding series of UEFA Nations League matches in September and October.
Their opening four fixtures are:
- September 24, 2026: Portugal vs Wales
- September 27, 2026: Norway vs Portugal
- October 1, 2026: Denmark vs Portugal
- October 4, 2026: Portugal vs Norway
The opening match against Wales will mark Jesus’ first game in charge of Portugal.
The fixtures will provide an early opportunity for the new manager to assess his squad, establish his preferred approach and begin building momentum in the competition.
Portugal will face Norway twice during the international window, alongside matches against Wales and Denmark.
The schedule presents Jesus with several opportunities to evaluate his players against different opponents as he begins his tenure.
For Cristiano Ronaldo, the matches could offer another chance to contribute to Portugal’s international campaign and demonstrate his continued value to the national team.
A New Chapter for Portugal
Portugal’s latest squad combines experienced internationals with players receiving opportunities under a new manager.
Cristiano Ronaldo presence ensures that one of the country’s most recognisable football figures remains involved as the team moves forward from the World Cup.
For Jesus, the immediate challenge is to prepare Portugal for their Nations League fixtures while establishing a team selection based on performances and the demands of each match.
His existing relationship with Ronaldo adds another dimension to the transition, but the coach has made clear that reputation alone will not determine selection.
For the veteran forward, the call-up provides another opportunity to add to his international career, although his starting role will depend on the coach’s decisions.
Portugal’s campaign begins against Wales on September 24, with attention now turning to how Jesus’ side performs under his leadership.
Beyond the immediate fixtures, Portugal’s campaign will also be an opportunity to strengthen competition for places across the squad. With several players looking to establish themselves under Jesus, the coming weeks could prove important in determining the team’s balance, attacking combinations and defensive organisation ahead of future international tournaments.
