BREAKING: Cristiano Ronaldo will continue with the Portugal National Team, putting an end to retirement rumours after the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The 41-year-old legend has been confirmed as part of Portugal's squad for the upcoming international games.
New Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus has officially included Cristiano Ronaldo in his first ever squad list ahead of the new Portugal cycle, with matches scheduled for September and October 2026.
Jorge Jesus Confirms Ronaldo In First Portugal List
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Jorge Jesus has confirmed Ronaldo as part of his first list as Portugal manager. The 72-year-old coach, who previously coached Ronaldo at Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia, said Ronaldo will always have a place if he wants to continue.
“His performance is what matters. The past doesn't count. Cris is a player like any other. If he performs, he plays; if not, he doesn't.” - Jorge Jesus
Ronaldo was included in the new 25-man squad for Portugal's four UEFA Nations League matches. Portugal will face Wales at home on September 24, travel to Norway and Denmark on September 27 and October 1, before hosting Norway on October 4.
What This Means For Ronaldo's Future
Cristiano Ronaldo had said the 2026 World Cup would be his last World Cup after Portugal were knocked out in the Round of 16 by Spain. The Al-Nassr forward was emotional after the defeat and said he needed time with family to decide his future.
Despite turning 41, Ronaldo has made it clear he wants to finish his career at Al Nassr and continue scoring. His inclusion means he could still feature at the Nations League Finals next summer, when he will be 42, and potentially Euro 2028 when he will be 43.
NEVER ENDING CR7 - The Legend Continues
The five-time Ballon d'Or winner remains Portugal's captain and all-time top scorer. With 13 players in this new squad having worked with Jorge Jesus before, the new coach is building around experience and form, not age.
M2NICE Analysis: This decision shows Jorge Jesus trusts Ronaldo's fitness and leadership more than public pressure. For Portugal fans, it means the CR7 era is not over yet. If Ronaldo performs in September and October, he could force his way into Euro 2028 plans despite his age.
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