In Brief:
- New manager Jorge Jesus named Cristiano Ronaldo in his first 25-player selection for Portugal's upcoming UEFA Nations League matches.
- Jesus clarified that Ronaldo's past accolades will not guarantee a starting place, stating that team selection will be merit-based.
- Portugal kick off their Nations League Group A campaign against Wales on September 24, followed by fixtures against Norway and Denmark.
- Ronaldo remains the top international scorer in men's football history with 146 goals in 233 appearances for Portugal.
Cristiano Ronaldo's international career is set to continue after newly appointed Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus selected the 41-year-old forward in his first 25-man squad. The decision resolves ongoing uncertainty regarding Ronaldo's international future following Portugal's round-of-16 exit at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which he had previously indicated would be his last World Cup appearance. Portugal open their defending Nations League title campaign at home against Wales on September 24, 2026, before facing Norway on September 27 and Denmark on October 1.
Jesus, who succeeded Roberto Martínez after the World Cup, emphasized that while Ronaldo possesses unique status as a five-time Ballon d'Or winner, performance will strictly dictate on-field selection. Having previously worked with Ronaldo at Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League, the 72-year-old manager noted that the veteran captain retains a role in the national setup as long as his merit justifies it on the pitch. Ronaldo enters the international window as men's football's all-time record international scorer, holding 146 goals across 233 caps for Portugal.
