Portugal coach Jesus: Ronaldo's performance key to national team call-up

Portugal national team coach Jorge Jesus has clarified that Cristiano Ronaldo's performance is the main factor behind his decision to include him in the squad, stressing that the player's history and status do not influence his technical choices.

Jesus said: "His performance is what matters; the past does not count." He added: "Cristiano is a player like any other; if he performs well, he will play, and if not, he won't."

The Portugal coach continued in press statements: "It's true that he has a special status and has won five Ballon d'Or awards, but does that affect my decisions? No."

On Ronaldo's standing compared to other players, Jesus said: "But is he a different player? Certainly."

Jesus recently announced Portugal's squad for the September training camp, which includes Ronaldo, the Al-Nassr captain, as the team prepares for three matches in the 2026 UEFA Nations League.

Portugal will open their campaign against Wales on Thursday, September 24, then face Norway on Sunday, September 27, before concluding against Denmark on Thursday, October 1.

Portugal is in Group D of the tournament alongside Wales, Norway, and Denmark.

Ronaldo, now 41, continues his journey with the national team despite previously stating that the 2026 World Cup would be his last, without yet specifying when he will retire from international football.

Ronaldo's return to the national squad under Jesus comes after the Portuguese coach worked with him at Al-Nassr, where they led the team to the league title last season.