Ronaldo, 41, Returns to Portugal Squad for Nations League

WHO:

BBC News - Cristiano Ronaldo is named in the Portugal squad.

IJR - Jorge Jesus is the new coach of the Portugal national team.

WHAT:

BBC News - Ronaldo is included in the first squad selected by Jorge Jesus for the Nations League games.

IJR - Ronaldo has a total of 979 career goals, which is 21 goals shy of reaching 1,000.

WHERE:

BBC News - The events pertain to the Portugal national football team.

WHEN:

IJR - The upcoming Nations League games are scheduled for a future date.

WHY:

Sportskeeda - Jorge Jesus stated that Cristiano Ronaldo's selection will be based on his performances rather than his past achievements, including his five Ballon d'Or wins.

IJR - Ronaldo's selection follows his performance during the Saudi title run at Al-Nassr.

HOW:

BBC News - The squad selection is part of the new coach's strategy for the team.

(UPDATED September 18, 2026 18:02 UTC)

Jorge Jesus has announced that Cristiano Ronaldo's selection for the team will depend on his current performances instead of his impressive history, which includes five Ballon d'Or wins. This statement highlights a shift in focus towards present capabilities rather than past accolades. Fans will be watching closely to see how this impacts Ronaldo's future with the team.

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(UPDATED September 18, 2026 17:04 UTC)

Cristiano Ronaldo has been named in the Portugal national football team's squad for the upcoming Nations League games, marking his inclusion in the first lineup selected by new coach Jorge Jesus. Ronaldo, who recently showcased his skills during the Saudi title run at Al-Nassr, currently boasts a remarkable total of 979 career goals, just 21 shy of the milestone 1,000. This squad selection is part of Jesus's strategy to lead the team forward in the international competition.