Why I Picked Ronaldo for Portugal Squad — Coach Jesus

Portugal coach Jorge Jesus has explained his decision to include Cristiano Ronaldo in the latest national team squad, insisting the veteran forward remains an important player for the European champions.

Ronaldo, 41, was named in Jesus’ squad for Portugal’s upcoming UEFA Nations League fixtures after continuing to feature prominently for Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League.

The decision comes amid continued discussion over Ronaldo’s international future as Portugal prepare for another stage of their competitive campaign.

Jesus, who took charge of the national team earlier this year, said his selection decisions would be based on what players can contribute to Portugal rather than their age.

The coach pointed to Ronaldo’s experience, goalscoring record and influence within the squad as factors behind his decision.

Jesus said Ronaldo still has qualities that can make a difference in important matches and that his presence provides another option in Portugal’s attack.

The former Benfica and Flamengo coach has also stressed that selection is not based on reputation alone. Players must continue demonstrating their value at club and international level.

Ronaldo remains Portugal’s most prolific goalscorer and the world’s leading men’s international scorer. He has also accumulated more than 200 international appearances, making him one of the most experienced players in international football.

His international career includes triumphs at the 2016 European Championship and the 2019 UEFA Nations League. He has represented Portugal at six World Cups and remains a central figure in the national team.

Portugal’s current squad contains a mixture of established stars and younger players, reflecting Jesus’ efforts to maintain experience while developing the next generation.

The coach’s decision means Ronaldo remains part of the group as Portugal continue preparations for their upcoming fixtures.

Ronaldo’s continued selection also keeps attention on how Jesus plans to manage the veteran forward’s workload. At 41, Ronaldo’s physical demands and playing schedule remain different from those of younger members of the squad.

Jesus has indicated that his decisions will depend on the needs of each match and the condition of the players available to him.

For Ronaldo, the latest call-up provides another opportunity to add to his remarkable international record and contribute to Portugal’s pursuit of further honours.

The striker has continued to score regularly for Al-Nassr, where he signed a new contract extending his stay with the Saudi club.

Jesus will now work with Ronaldo and the rest of the squad as Portugal prepare for their upcoming international assignments.