Cristiano Ronaldo is set to continue his international career with Portugal after receiving a call-up from new head coach Jorge Jesus for his inaugural squad, resolving the Al Nassr captain’s future weeks following his final World Cup appearance.
As the Portuguese national team prepares to launch its defense of the UEFA Nations League title, Jesus has retained Ronaldo among his attacking options alongside Gonçalo Ramos and Fábio Silva, amidst five roster changes compared to their 2026 World Cup squad.
The 41-year-old’s inclusion comes as little surprise given his strong bond with Jesus. The pair worked together at Al Nassr during the 2025–2026 season, securing the Saudi Pro League title before Jesus departed to take charge of the national team.
Ronaldo played a pivotal role in bringing Jesus to Al Nassr, a fact acknowledged by the Portuguese manager upon his appointment when he stated: “If not for Cristiano’s invitation, I would not be here.” Their working relationship flourished over a season that culminated in domestic league success.
Following his appointment as Portugal boss, Jesus emphasized that his existing rapport with Ronaldo would streamline their partnership, stating: “Cristiano will never be a problem—neither for the national team nor for me.” He added: “Working with him was very straightforward; when I felt he should play, he played, and when I saw otherwise, he did not.”
Although Ronaldo previously announced that the 2026 World Cup would be his last, exiting the tournament after a 1–0 round-of-16 defeat to Spain, he later clarified that he would avoid making hasty decisions regarding his international future. It has now become clear his comments applied strictly to the World Cup rather than a complete retirement from international football.
The Seleção das Quinas captain boasts an unmatched international legacy, having scored 146 goals in 233 appearances since his debut against Kazakhstan in August 2003—holding the men’s world records for both most international caps and goals.
Ronaldo guided Portugal to the first three major trophies in the country’s history: UEFA Euro 2016 and UEFA Nations League titles in 2019 and 2025. Additionally, he became the first player to score in six different World Cup tournaments and stands as Portugal’s all-time leading scorer in the competition with 10 goals.
The pursuit of 1,000 career goals provides further impetus for Ronaldo’s continued play. Having brought his official tally to 979 goals across club and international football, he stands just 21 goals away from a milestone never before reached in documented football history.
With his contract at Al Nassr running through June 2027, Ronaldo retains a full season to feature at both club and international levels. While his current selection does not guarantee an appearance at UEFA Euro 2028, it allows him to prolong his international career as long as his physical conditioning holds and he remains central to Jesus’ plans.
Portugal opens its Nations League campaign against Wales in Lisbon on September 24, before traveling to face Norway on September 27 and Denmark on October 1, concluding the international window by hosting Norway in Porto on October 4.
