Jorge Jesus says Cristiano Ronaldo can still return to Portugal

Portugal is still in the race to have Cristiano Ronaldo back for international duty, with coach Jorge Jesus saying the forward will return “if he wants to”. The 41-year-old captain left the camp after being an unused substitute against Norway and learning he would not start their match vs Denmark.

After departing the group, Ronaldo posted on social media that “in due course” he will explain to the Portuguese people the reasons behind his exit from the national team, to which he has always been dedicated. Jesus said they can talk before the next call-up, but that the player himself will decide. The coach also insisted he has told Ronaldo the same thing since his first call-up: being close matters, whether he plays or not.

Portugal’s Nations League weekend ended with a 2-1 win over Norway that secured a last-eight place, keeping them six points clear of Denmark in second. Joao Cancelo praised Ronaldo as the captain and the best player Portugal have ever had, while Nuno Mendes said any player coming back is welcome.

In the matches Ronaldo missed, AC Milan striker Gonçalo Ramos scored in each of his three starts with Ronaldo out.