Why I picked Ronaldo for Portugal squad — Coach Jesus
Portugal’s new head coach Jorge Jesus has explained why he named Cristiano Ronaldo in his first national team squad, stressing that current form, not past achievements, will decide the 41-year-old’s place.
Jesus included the Al-Nassr forward in the 25-man group for the upcoming UEFA Nations League matches against Wales, Norway and Denmark.
According to football transfer expert, Fabrizio Romano on X on Friday, speaking after announcing the squad on Friday, the coach said:
“His performance is what matters. The past doesn’t count.
“Cristiano is a player like all the others. If he is performing well, he will play. If he isn’t, he won’t.
“He has a different status and has won five Ballon d’Or awards, but does that influence my decisions? No.
“But is he a different player? Absolutely.”
The call-up ends speculation that Ronaldo’s international career may have ended after Portugal’s World Cup exit earlier this summer. Jesus previously coached Ronaldo at Al-Nassr and takes charge of Portugal for the first time against Wales on September 24.
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