Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal Return Remains in His Own Hands: Coach
Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus has said Cristiano Ronaldo remains welcome in the national team, but the final decision on his return rests entirely with the veteran forward.
The 41-year-old Ronaldo recently left Portugal’s Nations League camp after being left on the bench against Norway and subsequently informed that he would not start against Denmark.
Following his departure, Ronaldo posted on social media that he would explain the reasons behind his decision to leave the national team to the Portuguese public at an appropriate time.
Jesus said he wants Ronaldo to decide for himself how and when he brings his international career to an end. The coach stressed that the five-time Ballon d’Or winner remains an important figure for Portugal, while making it clear that his return will ultimately depend on Ronaldo.
“I want Ronaldo to finish his journey with the national team the way he wants,” Jesus said, underlining the respect he has for the star forward.
Jesus is also familiar with Ronaldo from his time as coach of Saudi club Al Nassr, where he previously worked with the Portuguese superstar.
Ronaldo has made 234 appearances for Portugal and scored 146 international goals, both figures representing world records. He has also played a major role in Portugal’s successes at Euro 2016 and two UEFA Nations League titles.
With Ronaldo’s international future once again under discussion, Portugal’s supporters now await the forward’s own decision on whether he will return to the national side.
Table of Contents
