Cristiano Ronaldo’s return to the Portugal national team remains uncertain, and the standoff between the captain and Jorge Jesus remains unresolved. Efforts to bring them together have yet to produce a breakthrough.
Saudi outlet Arriyadiyah reported on Saturday, citing a source close to Jorge Jesus, that Ronaldo’s return appears difficult for now and that he is likely to remain absent from the squad, though a solution is still possible.
The source said Jesus wants the striker back but is standing firm on the conditions and rules that triggered the crisis, meaning the forward’s return depends on both parties reaching an understanding.
The source added that the dispute does not currently threaten Jesus’s position and denied rumors that he might resign over the clash with the national team captain. Portuguese Football Federation president Pedro Proença continues to push for a meeting between the two, though no agreement has been reached.
Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal. (Getty Images)
Jesus has insisted that Ronaldo’s return depends on the player’s own wish, adding that he needs the forward regardless of whether he plays. This contrasts with Proença’s more optimistic tone, who described the situation as an internal misunderstanding that should be settled and expressed hope that the Al Nassr star will return for the November camp.
The rift began in September, when Ronaldo remained on the bench for the entire Matchday 2 of the UEFA Nations League against Norway, even after warming up. Tensions escalated when Jesus announced that the 41‑year‑old would not start against Denmark, leading Ronaldo to leave the camp before that match.
The captain later issued a statement apologizing to fans and teammates, while accusing Jesus of failing to honor two agreements: providing him with roughly 30 minutes of playing time in the Norway match and clarifying his situation during the pre‑Denmark press conference. Ronaldo added that he is prepared to face the consequences of his actions and left the possibility of a return open.
For now, Portugal’s next international window will be the real test. With both Ronaldo and Jesus maintaining their positions and Proença still seeking a resolution, the November camp could determine whether the all‑time leading scorer in international football returns to the squad or remains absent.