en.malanginspirasi.com – Cristiano Ronaldo will continue to lead Portugal into a new cycle after new head coach Jorge Jesus included the 41-year-old captain in his first squad for the UEFA Nations League on Friday, September 18th.
The Al-Nassr forward, who holds a record 233 caps and 146 international goals for his country, was selected alongside established stars including Bernardo Silva and Bruno Fernandes.
Jesus, who previously coached Ronaldo at Al-Nassr and helped the club win the Saudi Pro League, made only limited changes from the group that represented Portugal at the 2026 World Cup.
Portugal, the defending Nations League champions after their 2025 triumph, open the new campaign by hosting Wales on September 24 in Lisbon.
They then face Norway away on September 27, Denmark away on October 1, and host Norway again on October 4.
Also Read:
Ronaldo had indicated that the 2026 World Cup would be his final major tournament, but he has not announced a full retirement from international duty.
Jesus has been clear that performance, not age or pedigree, will dictate selection.
In comments around the squad announcement, the coach stressed that Ronaldo is treated like any other player.
“If he performs, he plays; if he doesn’t, he doesn’t,” while acknowledging the forward’s unique status as a five-time Ballon d’Or winner and symbol of Portuguese football.
Supporters of the call-up point to Ronaldo’s experience working under Jesus at club level and his unmatched leadership and goal-scoring record.
Critics have questioned whether continued reliance on the veteran fits a longer-term rebuild toward Euro 2028 and beyond, especially after Portugal’s round-of-16 exit at the World Cup.
What fans are saying on X
Reactions poured in quickly after the squad was confirmed:
“CR7 IS NOT DONE! 41 years old and still getting called up. Longevity on another level. The legend never stops ”
“Respect the longevity. Ronaldo still leading Portugal as they defend the Nations League title. What a career.”
“Jesus knows him best from Al-Nassr. If anyone can get the best out of Ronaldo at this stage, it’s him. Let’s go Portugal ”
“At 41 with 146 goals already… still chasing more. Some people will complain no matter what, but the man delivers when it matters.”
Portugal will look to Ronaldo’s presence and the squad’s blend of established internationals and returning or new faces as they begin their title defense in Group 4 alongside Wales, Norway, and Denmark.
