Jorge Jesus states Cristiano Ronaldo can return to Portugal national team if he chooses

Cristiano Ronaldo left the Portugal national team on Wednesday, but national team coach Jorge Jesus indicated that the door is open for his return. Jesus stated on Sunday that Ronaldo can rejoin the squad if he wishes, despite his recent departure. Portugal qualified for the quarterfinals of the 2026-27 UEFA Nations League with a 2-1 comeback win against Norway, demonstrating they could succeed without Ronaldo. Goncalo Ramos scored the winning goal in the 86th minute after Joao Cancelo equalized following Kristoffer Ajer's opening goal for Norway. Jesus expressed his willingness to include Ronaldo in future call-ups, contingent on the player's decision. He noted, "For me, Cris, in the next call-up, if he’s playing at Al-Nassr, he’ll be a player who can be called up. If he wants to, he’ll return to the national team." Ronaldo left the national team camp after a dispute regarding his selection, raising questions about his future with the team. He was substituted in the Nations League opener against Wales and did not play in the match against Norway. After learning he would be benched for the upcoming match in Denmark, Ronaldo returned to Saudi Arabia. Portugal won that match 4-2. Teammate Bruno Fernandes addressed the media, emphasizing Ronaldo's significance to the team and urging unity among fans. Jesus reiterated the importance of Ronaldo to the national team, stating, "Cristiano should end his time in the national team the way he wants; he’s the one who will decide how he wants it." Ronaldo, who debuted for Portugal in 2003, has indicated that this may be his final year in football. Portugal's next international match is against Denmark on November 14, followed by a game in Wales on November 17.