In Braga and Cardiff, Portugal’s November Nations League dates may bring Cristiano Ronaldo back into the international fold. The 41-year-old Al-Nassr forward has been placed on the preliminary squad for matches against Denmark and Wales, opening a route towards his return after a disciplinary dispute with national-team coach Jorge Jesus.
A route back into the Portugal squad
Ronaldo’s inclusion is not yet a guarantee of selection. Jesus is due to name his final group on 6 November, and the coach retains the final say over whether Portugal’s captain returns for the two fixtures.
The forward left the national-team camp on 30 September after tensions developed around his role in the side. The disagreement followed Portugal’s win over Norway, a match in which Ronaldo began among the substitutes despite spending part of the second half preparing to come on.
- Ronaldo was included in the preliminary selection for the November games.
- The final Portugal squad is scheduled to be announced on 6 November.
- His 30-day suspension concludes on 30 October, before the next international window.
- The Portuguese Football Federation imposed a €255 fine alongside the suspension.
September disagreement and disciplinary action
The situation escalated after Jesus addressed the media and underlined that selection decisions rested with him. Ronaldo then departed the squad’s base.
Several days later, the Al-Nassr player issued a lengthy statement in which he said agreements regarding his involvement in matches had not been honoured. He apologised for leaving the camp, while also maintaining that he remained available to play for Portugal.
There has been no confirmation that Ronaldo and Jesus have fully repaired their relationship. Nevertheless, the coach has previously indicated that a return remained possible, while federation president Pedro Proença has also expressed his wish to have Ronaldo available again.
Portugal’s November itinerary
Portugal have made an assured start to their Nations League campaign, winning each of their opening four matches and already securing a place in the quarter-finals. The coming fixtures offer a home evening in northern Portugal before a trip across to Wales.
- Portugal v Denmark — 14 November, Braga
- Wales v Portugal — 17 November, Cardiff
For Ronaldo, the preliminary call-up is the first formal step after a difficult September. Whether it becomes a full return will be decided when Jesus settles his final travelling party next month.
