New Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus has indicated that Cristiano Ronaldo could still have a role to play for the national team, despite the veteran forward's tearful exit from the 2026 World Cup.
Jesus, 71, who managed Ronaldo at Saudi club Al-Nassr last season, was appointed to replace Roberto Martinez following Portugal's last-16 elimination from the World Cup. Ronaldo, who had stated before the tournament that the 2026 event would be his last, struggled to make a significant impact, and his place in the squad was a frequent topic of discussion.
During his unveiling, Jesus addressed Ronaldo's future, stating that the player's involvement would "never be a problem for the national team or for me." He emphasized his positive working relationship with Ronaldo at Al-Nassr, where they won the Saudi Pro League title during the 2025-26 campaign. Jesus mentioned that his primary goal upon joining Al-Nassr was to help Ronaldo secure titles.
"Everyone thinks as they wish," Jesus said. "When I have to make a decision, I will speak to him. But not only with him, I will speak to everyone individually. I'm not going to speak to Cris just because he's Cris. He is a symbol of Portuguese football, of the national team, of Portugal. That will always remain in history, and I had a great pleasure working with him this year. It's very easy to work with him."
Jesus added that Ronaldo would ultimately decide his own career path. "As long as I understand how far he can go and how far I can go. It's the coach-player relationship. From there, the conversations will be easy," he stated. He confirmed that if Ronaldo is playing and meets the conditions for selection, he would be called up, within the parameters he deems best for the national team.
Jesus also noted that he had no hesitation in substituting Ronaldo during their time at Al-Nassr, asserting his authority as coach. "We never confuse what he is, the player, and what I am, the coach, and the decisions I have to make."
Following Portugal's World Cup exit, Ronaldo expressed his sadness but maintained a clear conscience, stating he had given his all. He reiterated that it was his final World Cup and indicated he would take time to reflect before making any definitive decisions about his future.