Portugal coach says Ronaldo can return to the team if he wants to

Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus has stated that Cristiano Ronaldo can return to the national team if he decides to do so, indicating that the 41-year-old captain's future within the squad remains an open possibility. The Portuguese forward's abrupt departure from the team's training camp last week, following a win over Norway and a confirmed bench role for the upcoming match against Denmark, has left him questioning his continued involvement with the national team.

Ronaldo has since taken to social media to express his intention to clarify his reasons for leaving the team "in due course". Jesus clarified that Ronaldo's return to the national team is contingent upon his decision, emphasizing that the final call rests with the player himself. The coach has previously informed Ronaldo that his presence, whether playing or not, is essential to the team.

Portugal secured a 4-2 victory over Denmark without Ronaldo, and a 2-1 win against Norway, ensuring a flawless record in Group A4 and securing their position in the Nations League quarter-finals. Ronaldo, a five-time Ballon D'Or winner and Portugal's all-time top scorer and most-capped player, has contributed 146 goals in 234 international appearances for his country.

Portuguese Football Federation President Pedro Proenca maintains that Ronaldo remains an integral part of the team's plans, describing the situation as a misunderstanding that should be resolved internally. Proenca acknowledged Ronaldo's sporting merit to the team and paid tribute to the iconic forward. Jesus, who also coached Ronaldo during his time at Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr, anticipates the forward's availability for the next international window if he opts to return. Portugal is set to host Denmark on November 14th before traveling to Wales three days later.