Cristiano Ronaldo has been included in the first 25-man squad selected by new Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus. The 41-year-old captain, one of the most decorated figures in the sport, is set to lead the defending champions through four upcoming Nations League encounters.
Addressing his selection policy during a Friday press conference, the 72-year-old manager emphasized that past achievements would not dictate his lineup decisions. Jesus stated, “His performance is what matters. The past doesn’t count.” The coach noted that while Ronaldo’s status as a five-time Ballon d’Or winner is unique, his inclusion remains dependent on his current output on the pitch, noting that he treats the forward like any other player in the squad.
The current selection features 13 players who have previously worked under the former Al Nassr boss. Jesus acknowledged the importance of these relationships but maintained that the team structure remains fluid based on form. The manager officially took over in July, succeeding Roberto Martinez, who stepped down following Portugal’s exit in the round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Ronaldo, who previously indicated that the 2026 World Cup would be his final tournament, has yet to make a definitive decision regarding his long-term international future. He continues to play for Al Nassr, remaining a key figure for his national side since debuting for Sporting in 2002.
The campaign begins with a home match against Wales on September 24. Portugal will then play away fixtures against Norway on September 27 and Denmark on October 1, concluding this series of matches by hosting Norway on October 4.
The full 25-man squad is as follows: Goalkeepers: Diogo Costa, Rui Silva, Samuel Soares. Defenders: Goncalo Inacio, Joao Cancelo, Diogo Dalot, Nuno Tavares, Nuno Mendes, Renato Veiga, Ruben Dias, Tomas Araujo. Midfielders: Bruno Fernandes, Joao Palhinha, Joao Neves, Ruben Neves, Vitinha, Bernardo Silva. Forwards: Cristiano Ronaldo, Fabio Silva, Francisco Trincao, Francisco Conceicao, Goncalo Ramos, Joao Felix, Pedro Neto, Rafael Leao. The report also notes that in August, Ronaldo fuelled speculation about his retirement plans after saying the coming year would probably be the last of his playing career. The report also notes that having won major trophies with Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus and current club Al Nassr since making his senior debut for Sporting in 2002, the 41-year-old Portugal captain is one of the most decorated players in football history. The report also notes that ronaldo, a five-time Ballon d’Or winner, was unable to add a World Cup title to his list of honours after Portugal were knocked out in the last 16 by eventual champions Spain, leaving the sport’s biggest prize absent from his trophy cabinet.
