Could Cristiano Ronaldo play another World Cup after all? Portugal appoint his former Saudi boss, who immediately opens the door for 41-year-old to keep playing after tearful exit

New Portugal boss Jorge Jesus has given his backing to Cristiano Ronaldo, insisting he ‘will never be a problem for the national team’.

Veteran coach Jesus, 71, won the Saudi Pro League with Ronaldo at Al-Nassr last season before he was chosen to replace the outgoing Roberto Martinez.

That came after Portugal largely underwhelmed at the World Cup as they went out in the last-16 stage following a 1-0 defeat by Spain. 

Ronaldo struggled to make an impact at the tournament, and his place in the team was the subject of regular debate.

The 41-year-old had announced ahead of the Spain clash that it would be his sixth and final World Cup, although he gave no definitive verdict on his international future.

And, speaking at his unveiling, Jesus opened the door to Ronaldo continuing with his country. 

Discussing his time at Al-Nassr after his appointment at the start of their triumphant 2025-26 campaign, Jesus said: ‘When I received the invitation from Jose Semedo (Al-Nassr CEO) and Cris(tiano Ronaldo), I only accepted this challenge to help Cris win titles in Saudi Arabia. 

‘That was my purpose. We really want it, for the nation of Al-Nassr, and for Cris as well. It’s fundamental. Especially for what he has done not only for Saudi Arabian football but also for Nassr.’

The pair built on their good relationship during the year in Saudi Arabia after Ronaldo also played a big role in Jesus’ arrival at the club.

And when pressed on how he would manage Ronaldo in the national team, Jesus was steadfast in his response.  

‘I haven’t spoken to Cris yet,’ he said. ‘It (his involvement) will never be a problem for the national team or for me. Everyone thinks as they wish. When I have to make a decision, I will speak to him. But not only with him, I will speak to everyone individually. 

‘I’m not going to speak to Cris just because he’s Cris. He is a symbol of Portuguese football, of the national team, of Portugal. That will always remain in history, and I had a great pleasure working with him this year. It’s very easy to work with him. 

‘As long as I understand how far he can go and how far I can go. It’s the coach-player relationship. From there, the conversations will be easy.’

He continued: ‘He will always be the one to decide what he wants to do in his career. If he is playing and has the conditions to play, if he is eligible for selection, I will call him up, within the limits and conditions that I deem best for the national team.’

Jesus also asserted his authority by revealing that he regularly substituted Ronaldo at Al-Nassr last year as he quipped: ‘We never confuse what he is, the player, and what I am, the coach, and the decisions I have to make.’

Meanwhile, after Ronaldo was reduced to tears following Portugal’s World Cup exit, he said: ‘I’m sad to be leaving the World Cup like this. I gave it my all. I did my best, and I’m leaving with a clear conscience. 

‘It was my last World Cup, yes, but I’ll now have time to reflect and be with my family. I won’t be making any rash decisions.’