Cristiano Ronaldo remains free to return to the Portugal squad, with head coach Jorge Jesus indicating that the decision now rests with the 41-year-old captain.
Ronaldo left Portugal’s Nations League camp after sitting out the victory over Norway and learning that he would not start the following match against Denmark. The Al-Nassr forward later suggested he would explain his reasons publicly at a later stage.
Jesus had delayed addressing the situation until Portugal completed their latest Nations League fixtures. A 2-1 win over Norway on Sunday secured the defending champions a place in the quarter-finals and left them six points clear of second-placed Denmark in Group A4.
The Portugal coach, who previously worked with Ronaldo at Al-Nassr, said the veteran forward would be welcomed back if he decides to continue his international career. Jesus has maintained that Ronaldo remains valuable to the squad regardless of whether he starts matches.
Tension grows over Ronaldo’s role
Ronaldo began Portugal’s campaign in the 1-0 win over Wales but was left on the bench against Norway. He warmed up during the second half without entering the game, marking the first time since 2008 that he had been an unused substitute for Portugal in a competitive fixture.
The situation escalated after Jesus revealed that Ronaldo would also not start against Denmark. Ronaldo then departed the national-team camp before the match.
His absence has opened the door for Goncalo Ramos, with the AC Milan striker scoring in each of his three starts when Ronaldo has not been selected in the starting XI.
Despite the uncertainty, Ronaldo remains Portugal’s most decorated international player. He has scored 146 goals in 234 appearances, both world records, and has played a central role in the country’s most successful period.
Portugal players expect a resolution
Members of the Portugal squad have continued to publicly support their captain. Joao Cancelo stressed Ronaldo’s historic importance to the national side following the win over Norway, while Nuno Mendes indicated that the squad would welcome him back.
Ronaldo has won five Ballon d’Or awards and helped Portugal claim Euro 2016 as well as two Nations League titles.
Portugal will next host Denmark on 14 November before travelling to face Wales three days later. Whether Ronaldo is involved in those fixtures is expected to depend on discussions between the forward and Jesus ahead of the next squad announcement.