New Portugal manager Jorge Jesus has made it clear he wants Cristiano Ronaldo to remain a key part of the national team but stopped short of guaranteeing the 41-year-old a call-up. Speaking after being named Roberto Martinez's successor, Jesus addressed speculation about Ronaldo's international future following Portugal's World Cup round-of-16 exit to Spain.
Jesus: Ronaldo 'Never a Problem'
"I haven't spoken to Cris yet. He will never be a problem for the national team or for me," Jesus said. "As for the controversy, everyone is entitled to their own opinion." Jesus, who coached Ronaldo at Al-Nassr and led the club to the Saudi Pro League title in May, stressed the need for a personal conversation. "When the time comes to make a decision, I will speak with Cris and with everyone else individually. Cris is a symbol of Portugal. He will go down in history."
No Guarantees Despite Praise
Jesus acknowledged Ronaldo's desire to finish his career at Al-Nassr but outlined conditions for selection. "As long as he's playing and is in a condition to be selected, I will pick him, within certain limits and under the conditions that I consider best for the national team." He dismissed age as a factor, citing Ronaldo's fitness metrics: "Under me, he used to cover eight kilometres per match, reaching speeds above 25km per hour."
Ronaldo's World Cup Heartbreak
Ronaldo confirmed during the tournament that this was his final World Cup, and he was visibly distraught after Spain's last-gasp winner. His sister claimed during the competition that he had already decided to retire from international football this summer. Some fans and media have also questioned his role as first-choice striker.
Jesus Confident in Relationship
Jesus emphasized his existing rapport with Ronaldo and other players. "He played in 31 of 50 games last year. I substituted him 16 times and there were never any problems. I have a big advantage here because 12 of the players called up for the World Cup have already worked with me."
