Coach Jesus says Ronaldo must choose his own path with Portugal team

Portugal coach Jorge Jesus says the choice of whether Cristiano Ronaldo stays with the national side lies with the player. Jesus made the comment after Portugal edged Norway 2-1 in the Nations League on Sunday. He added that he had told Ronaldo he needed him in the squad, whether he was on the pitch or not, during their first discussion since Jesus took over. Ronaldo walked out of the squad’s training camp after remaining on the bench in the Norway win and finding out he would not start the upcoming game against Denmark. He posted on his social media that he would clarify his reasons later, sparking a wave of debate across football circles. The coach faced criticism at home for leaving the veteran out of the lineup. Pedro Proença, head of the Portuguese Football Federation, said the episode was a misunderstanding that should be settled inside the organization. He reaffirmed that Ronaldo remains in the team on merit and deserves the nation’s respect. Speculation grew that the 41‑year‑old could end his international career, especially after he earlier mentioned thinking about retiring after the 2026 World Cup. Ronaldo later said he still reflects on his choices, that he wants to keep helping the team by scoring and by contributing off the field, and that he intends to continue.

Context

Ronaldo’s presence has been a major factor for Portugal in recent tournaments, and his decision will affect the squad’s planning for upcoming qualifiers and the next World Cup cycle.