New coach Xavi Hernandez leaves Memphis Depay out of the Netherlands squad for Nations League

LISBON: Cristiano Ronaldo was added to Portugal's squad for their Nations League campaign on Friday, as Jorge Jesus selected his first team since becoming the coach. The 41-year-old Ronaldo disclosed last month that this might be his last season in football, marking the end of his illustrious career where he has netted over 950 goals for his club and country.

Jesus, 72, previously worked with Ronaldo at Al-Nassr before leaving in May after helping Portugal reach the World Cup's last-16. He replaced Roberto Martinez after Portugal's early exit from the tournament. Ronaldo holds the record for the most goals in men's international football history, with 146 goals in 233 appearances. He was the first player to score in six World Cups, but his World Cup performances received criticism.

Borussia Dortmund's Fabio Silva was called up, earning his first selection since his lone international appearance in November 2024, while Benfica's Joao Palhinha returns to the squad after nearly a year. Portugal have triumphed in the Nations League twice in four attempts. They are the current champions after defeating Spain in the 2025 final through a penalty shootout.

The Portuguese squad kickstarts their 2026-27 campaign against Wales in Lisbon on September 24, followed by matches against Norway in Oslo three days later and Denmark away on October 1, before facing Norway again in Porto on October 4.