Cristiano Ronaldo has been included in Jorge Jesus’ first Portugal squad, putting to rest, at least for now, speculation that the veteran forward could bring his international career to an end.
The 41-year-old Al-Nassr captain was named among a 25-man squad selected by Jesus for Portugal’s four Nations League fixtures scheduled between September 24 and October 4.
Ronaldo had remained non-committal about his international future following Portugal’s disappointing World Cup round-of-16 elimination by eventual champions Spain in July.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner, who has already announced that the tournament was expected to be his final World Cup, was visibly emotional after Portugal’s exit.
Asked immediately afterwards whether he would continue representing his country, Ronaldo said he would first return home, spend time with his family and make a decision “with a calm head.”
That response triggered renewed speculation that he could follow the path of his long-time rival, Lionel Messi, by stepping away from international football.
Jesus is no stranger to the forward, having managed him at Al-Nassr during the previous season. Their campaign ended with the Saudi club winning the Saudi Pro League for the first time in seven years.
The appointment therefore gives Jesus an early opportunity to work with a player whose experience remains significant to Portugal’s national team.
Ronaldo’s selection means he will continue his international career into another Nations League campaign, despite the questions surrounding how much longer he intends to play at the highest level.
