Portugal’s new coach opens up on Ronaldo’s int’l future
Newly-appointed Portugal coach Jorge Jesus has provided an update on Cristiano Ronaldo’s international future after the team crashed out of the 2026 World Cup.
Portugal suffered a 1-0 defeat to Spain in the round of 16 to bow out of the tournament which led to the exit of Roberto Martinez as the team’s coach.
The Spanish manager announced his departure after the match following the team’s disappointing showing.
However, The Portuguese Football Federation announced the appointment of Jorge Jesus on Friday to replace Roberto Martinez.
The Portuguese national team wrote on X on Friday that “A new journey begins today. Welcome to the National Team, Mister Jorge Jesus.”
The 71-year-old Jesus has coached several Portuguese clubs, including Benfica and Sporting Lisbon. His last job was with Al-Nassr in the Saudi Arabian league, where he coached Portugal star Cristiano Ronaldo.
Jesus outlined plans to discuss Ronaldo’s future with him after the Al Nassr forward said the 2026 World Cup will be his last tournament.
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He said: “As long as he’s playing and is in a condition to be selected, I will pick him, within certain limits and under the conditions that I consider best for the national team.
”I haven’t spoken with [Ronaldo] yet. [He] is never going to be a problem for the national team. Not for the national team, nor for me.
“I had great pleasure working with him this past year, [it’s] easy to work with him.
“That’s a conversation we’re both going to have. What does he want to do for the future of his career?”
Jesus will manage his first match for Portugal against Wales in the UEFA Nations League in September.
He won three Portuguese league titles, while his year with Flamengo in 2019 produced five major trophies, including the Brazilian championship and Copa Libertadores.
He also guided Al Hilal to a domestic treble during the 2023/24 season.
