Jorge Jesus warns Cristiano Ronaldo may need Al‑Nassr to hit 1,000 goals

Cristiano Ronaldo Portugal finds his international future under fresh scrutiny after Jorge Jesus’ first‑squad call‑up, with the 41‑year‑old determined to stay on while the new coach warns the veteran’s 1,000‑goal target may be more realistic at Al‑Nassr.

Jesus' squad selection

Jorge Jesus included Ronaldo in Portugal’s opening UEFA Nations League line‑up, naming Wales on 24 September, Norway on 27 September, Denmark on 1 October and a second Norway clash on 4 October as his first four fixtures.

Milestone chase and club prospects

Ronaldo currently boasts 979 official goals for club and country, leaving him 21 short of the coveted 1,000‑goal mark. Jesus told reporters, “I don’t know, but I think he’s more likely to score his 1,000th career goal with Al‑Nassr than with the Portugal national team.”

Past ties and recent emotions

The 72‑year‑old Jesus previously guided Ronaldo at Al‑Nassr, helping the Saudi side clinch the 2025‑26 Saudi Pro League title before taking over from Roberto Martinez as Portugal head coach. Ronaldo was visibly emotional after Portugal’s last‑16 exit from the 2026 World Cup, a tournament he confirmed would be his final World Cup.

Portugal takes the upper hand over Wales in the Nations League

Despite that disappointment, Ronaldo has said “this is probably my last year of football” yet insists he has no immediate plans to quit the national team, remaining eager to add to his record.

Jesus’ warning is performance‑based and applies to every player in the squad, not a signal that Ronaldo is being pushed toward international retirement.

Ronaldo aims for 1,000 goals and a Nations League win as final target

Al‑Nassr’s schedule offers far more club fixtures than Portugal’s limited Nations League matches, meaning the Saudi club provides the greater chance for Ronaldo to close the 21‑goal gap before the 2026‑27 season concludes.