Cristiano Ronaldo remains available for Portugal if he chooses to return, according to national team coach Jorge Jesus. The 41-year-old forward left the squad after being an unused substitute in the Nations League match against Norway, and then learning he would not start the following game against Denmark.
Ronaldo’s absence has stirred debate after he was told he might come on as a substitute against Norway but was ultimately left on the bench. It was the first time since 2008 that he had been an unused substitute in a competitive game for Portugal. Frustrated, he departed the camp before the Denmark match, posting on social media that he would explain his reasons to Portuguese fans at a later time.
Jesus, who also manages Ronaldo at Saudi club Al-Nassr, said the striker’s future with the national team is still open. “If he wants to, he’ll return to the national team,” Jesus said. “We can talk before the next call-up, but Cris is the one who’s going to decide.” He added, “Cristiano should end his time in the national team the way he wants, he’s the one who will decide how he wants it.”
The Portugal coach had previously told the media during his initial call-up that he needed Ronaldo’s presence in the squad regardless of whether he played. Now, Jesus says he repeats the same sentiment.
Ronaldo has scored 146 goals in 234 appearances for Portugal, both records at the international level. He captained the side to victory in Euro 2016 and two Nations League titles, cementing his status as one of football’s all-time greats with five Ballon d’Or wins.
Portugal are currently top of their Nations League Group A4 after a 2-1 win over Norway on Sunday, which secured their place in the competition’s quarter-finals. They face Denmark at home on 14 November and then travel to Wales three days later.
Ronaldo started the opening 1-0 win over Wales but was benched for the next two matches. His absence has coincided with a strong run from AC Milan striker Goncalo Ramos, who has scored in all three of his starts without Ronaldo.
Joao Cancelo, one of Portugal’s defenders, told RTP after the Norway game, “Cristiano is our captain, the best player Portugal has ever had. Things will certainly end in the best way [with him] but the important thing is the four victories.”
Fellow teammate Nuno Mendes said, “Any player who comes to the national team is welcome, obviously. If Cris returns, we’ll be here to receive him with open arms.”
Ronaldo’s decision to step away from the squad at this stage has created uncertainty. Jesus has left the door open but stressed that the veteran forward must make the call on his own terms. The next Portugal squad announcement will clarify whether Ronaldo is included as the team prepares for crucial Nations League fixtures.
According to Yahoo Sports.
