New Portugal Coach Jorge Jesus Retains Cristiano Ronaldo in 25-Man Squad
SingTao · 2 SOURCESabout 4 hours ago2 MIN
Summary
Portugal national team head coach Jorge Jesus announced his first squad on Friday, September 18, 2026, confirming that veteran striker Cristiano Ronaldo remains a central figure in the national team setup . The 72-year-old coach, who previously worked with Ronaldo at Saudi club Al-Ittihad, signed a four-year deal to replace departed manager Roberto Martinez . The squad of 25 features 21 players from Portugal's 2026 World Cup roster, indicating Jesus will largely maintain the previous coaching staff's selection approach . Ronaldo, who had hinted at retiring next summer, continues to represent Portugal and now targets increasing his remarkable tally of 146 international goals .
Key Points
- Cristiano Ronaldo, 41, has been named in Portugal's 25-man squad by new coach Jorge Jesus .
- Ronaldo has earned 233 caps for Portugal and scored 146 goals, aiming for 150 .
- The squad retains 21 of 26 players from the 2026 World Cup, maintaining squad continuity .
- Four new call-ups include goalkeeper Semir Suárez, defender Nuno Tavares, midfielder João Boémlia, and forward Fábio Silva .
- Portugal will play four Nations League matches in September and October against Wales, Norway (twice), and Denmark .
Why It Matters
Ronaldo's continued selection signals that Portugal's new coaching regime values experience and continuity over rebuilding, even with an aging squad . The decision also validates Jesus's previous working relationship with Ronaldo at Al-Ittihad, suggesting the forward's Saudi Pro League performance met the required standards . With Portugal competing in the Nations League, Ronaldo's presence provides attacking leadership and goalscoring pedigree that could prove decisive in tight matches against Wales, Norway, and Denmark .
Ronaldo's continued selection signals that Portugal's new coaching regime values experience and continuity over rebuilding, even with an aging squad . The decision also validates Jesus's previous working relationship with Ronaldo at Al-Ittihad, suggesting the forward's Saudi Pro League performance met the required standards . With Portugal competing in the Nations League, Ronaldo's presence provides attacking leadership and goalscoring pedigree that could prove decisive in tight matches against Wales, Norway, and Denmark .