Portugal can advance without Ronaldo, but Jesus hopes for his return

Portugal qualified early for the Nations League quarter‑finals after the 2‑1 win over Norway in Porto, but national coach Jorge Jesus said he is open to the return of superstar Cristiano Ronaldo. After the victory he stressed that a possible comeback would depend only on Ronaldo’s own wish.

Jesus spoke immediately after the 2‑1 success against Norway in Porto. He said: “For me, Cris is a candidate for the squad at the next call‑up – provided he plays at al‑Nassr.” He added: “If he wants to come back, he will come back.”

Ronaldo’s Record and Absence

Ronaldo, Portugal’s record player and goal‑scorer, has so far played 234 international matches and scored 146 goals – both record figures in international football. Last week he left the national team after he was not used in the first leg in Norway and did not start in the return match against Denmark. His absence forced the team to cope without its star.

Portugal without Ronaldo in the Nations League

Despite Ronaldo’s absence, Portugal won all three Nations League matches in the turbulent week and is already in the quarter‑finals. In every game Gonçalo Ramos filled the centre‑forward role that normally belonged to Ronaldo. The defending champion therefore remains on track, while the debate over the superstar’s return continues to flare.

The 72‑year‑old Jesus, who coached Ronaldo at al‑Nassr last season and led the club to the championship, spoke of a misunderstanding that is easy to resolve. Portuguese federation president Pedro Proença announced that he will mediate between Ronaldo and Jesus. He said: “Now that these four games are over, we will all have the time and calm to sit down and resolve a misunderstanding.” At the moment a mutually agreeable solution is being worked on.

New captain Bruno Fernandes called Ronaldo the greatest symbol of the national team, of football and of the country. Full‑back Nuno Mendes said: “If Cris returns, we will welcome him with open arms.” João Cancelo added that he believes in the best outcome and that everyone wants a calm, respectful solution for Cristiano.

The contrast between Portugal’s successful run without Ronaldo and the coach’s open willingness to bring the superstar back highlights the tension between sporting success and the player’s emotional significance for the team.