In Lisbon, Jorge Jesus began his Portugal tenure by bringing Cristiano Ronaldo into his first squad, ending days of anticipation around the new coach’s initial selection.
Ronaldo, now 41 and playing for Al-Nassr, is among those called up by Jesus, who previously worked with the forward for one season in Saudi Arabia. The Portugal coach insisted that their shared past will not influence his decisions over the national team.
Quick facts
- Jorge Jesus has named Cristiano Ronaldo in his first Portugal squad.
- The coach and Ronaldo spent one season together at Al-Nassr.
- Jesus says selection and team choices will be made on equal terms for every player.
- Ronaldo has won the Ballon d’Or five times.
Jesus said Ronaldo would be treated no differently from any other member of the group, while recognising the scale of the forward’s career. “Cristiano Ronaldo will never be an issue for the Portugal national team,” he said.
The coach added that Ronaldo remains “a player like everyone else”, but noted the distinction of having been named the world’s best player five times by France Football through the Ballon d’Or.
For Portugal, the first squad of a new cycle arrives with its most enduring figure still present. Jesus has made clear that reputation alone will not decide roles, even for a player whose international career has spanned generations.
