Jesus leaves door open for Ronaldo after Portugal’s win

Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus addressed his team’s 2‑1 Nations League victory over Norway and spoke candidly for the first time about Cristiano Ronaldo’s situation. Ronaldo left the national camp earlier in the break, prompting uncertainty about his future, and Jesus admitted he does not know what the forward intends to do next. He stressed, however, that nothing had occurred to undermine his authority and that Ronaldo remains eligible for selection as long as he is playing.

Jesus argued the controversy arose solely because of Ronaldo’s iconic status, noting that similar warm‑up issues happen with any player. He added that a meeting before November’s fixtures would be helpful, though both sides must agree. The coach praised Portugal’s qualification for the quarter‑finals and reiterated that squad choices will depend on younger players’ club form. Jesus also echoed Bruno Fernandes’ view of Ronaldo as Portugal’s greatest symbol, insisting he never demanded an apology from anyone.