Jorge Jesus says Ronaldo will return to Portugal squad only if he wants

Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus has commented on Cristiano Ronaldo’s possible return to the national team, saying the captain will come back only if he wants to.

Speaking to Record, Jesus said some people had exaggerated the situation involving Ronaldo. According to the coach, the forward being sent to warm up but not brought onto the pitch sparked controversy, but should not be a reason for Ronaldo to abruptly end his international career.

The coach said he wants Ronaldo to remain with the national team, but stressed that the player must decide for himself when and how to end his career. Jesus also said he had spoken with Ronaldo about the matter.

Ronaldo left the national team camp before Portugal’s third-round Nations League match against Denmark, which ended 4-2. This happened despite Jesus saying there was no conflict between them. Portuguese media have reported that the forward intends to end his international career. It has also been reported that Jesus agreed to a reconciliation meeting and wants to include Ronaldo in the squad for the November matches.