Cristiano Ronaldo named in Portugal squad for Nations League

The 41-year-old is part of a 25-man squad for Portugal's four upcoming Nations League fixtures, despite previously casting doubt over his future with the national team following their World Cup exit.

Ronaldo confirmed in July that the 2026 World Cup would be his final appearance at the tournament. After Portugal were eliminated by eventual champions Spain in the last 16, he was asked whether he would continue representing his country.

"I will meet the family and take decisions with a calm head," Ronaldo said at the time.

His comments prompted speculation that he could follow Lionel Messi in bringing his international career to an end. Ronaldo, however, remains in contention as Portugal begin their Nations League campaign under Jesus.

The new coach knows the forward well after working with him at Al-Nassr last season, when the Saudi club won the league title for the first time in seven years.

Jesus was appointed in July following Roberto Martinez's departure after Portugal's World Cup elimination. The 72-year-old has made it clear that Ronaldo's reputation will not guarantee him a place in the starting XI.

"His performance is what matters. The past doesn't count," Jesus said.

"Cris is a player like any other. If he performs, he plays; if not, he doesn't. He has a different status - he has five Ballon d'Or awards - but does that factor into my decisions? No. However, the fact that he is different is."

Ronaldo remains the leading scorer in men's international football with 146 goals and helped Portugal win Euro 2016.

He will turn 42 before next year's Nations League finals and 43 by Euro 2028, although he has not formally announced his international retirement.

Portugal begin their Nations League campaign at home to Wales on 24 September before travelling to face Norway three days later. They then play Denmark away on 1 October before hosting Norway on 4 October.

The squad also includes Manchester United duo Bruno Fernandes and Diogo Dalot, Manchester City's Ruben Dias and Chelsea forward Pedro Neto.

Portugal squad

Goalkeepers: Diogo Costa, Rui Silva, Samuel Soares

Defenders: Goncalo Inacio, Joao Cancelo, Diogo Dalot, Nuno Tavares, Nuno Mendes, Renato Veiga, Ruben Dias, Tomas Araujo

Midfielders: Bruno Fernandes, Joao Palhinha, Joao Neves, Ruben Neves, Vitinha, Bernardo Silva

Forwards: Cristiano Ronaldo, Fabio Silva, Francisco Trincao, Francisco Conceicao, Goncalo Ramos, Joao Felix, Pedro Neto, Rafael Leao

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