Portugal boss says door open for Ronaldo return

Portugal manager Jorge Jesus has indicated that Cristiano Ronaldo could return to the national team if he wishes to, following his recent absence from a Portugal match. The 41-year-old captain left the team's Nations League camp after sitting on the bench against Norway and then hearing he wouldn't play against Denmark. Ronaldo, who has scored 146 goals in 234 appearances for Portugal, both world records, expressed his discontent on social media, stating he will later share his reasons for leaving the team.

Jesus had previously said he would discuss the matter after Portugal's final Nations League game against Norway, which they won 2-1, securing their place in the next round. Jesus reiterated that Ronaldo's decision on his return will ultimately be his own. Portugal will face Denmark in their next Group A4 match on November 14th, followed by a visit to Wales three days later.

Ronaldo started the opening game against Wales with a 1-0 victory, but he was only a substitute for Norway, leading to his anger over being made to warm up but not coming on. He was previously unused as a substitute in a competitive game for Portugal since 2008. AC Milan striker Goncalo Ramos, who has scored in all three starts with Ronaldo out of the team, scored the opening goal in Portugal's last match.

Portugal's Joao Cancelo praised Ronaldo, calling him Portugal's best ever player, while teammate Nuno Mendes expressed open arms if Ronaldo returns to the national team.