Jorge Jesus leaves door open for Cristiano Ronaldo Portugal return

Jorge Jesus has told Cristiano Ronaldo the way remains open for a return to Portugal duty, saying the forward must decide what he wants to do with his career after a disagreement between the two men.

Portugal strengthened their position in the Nations League by beating Norway 2-1 in the fourth round of Group D fixtures. The result also secured their place in the competition’s quarter-finals.

Asked about Ronaldo’s possible return at his news conference, Portugal manager Jorge Jesus said: “For me, everything is open. Cristiano has to decide what he wants to do in his life.”

Jesus added: “It was just a misunderstanding, and it is easy for me to resolve this situation.”

Ronaldo left the Portugal camp following the dispute with Jesus, but the team have won their past two matches without him. Their victory against Norway was the second in succession since the forward’s departure.

Portugal were forced to play the closing stages with 10 players after Francisco Conceicao was sent off in the 86th minute. Despite the dismissal, they held on to claim the 2-1 win and confirm their progress to the last eight of the Nations League.

Jesus’ comments indicate that Ronaldo’s international future has not been closed off, although the manager placed the decision with the player. His remarks came after Portugal completed qualification for the quarter-finals with a result that extended their winning run following the events at the training camp.

The Portugal manager described the disagreement as a misunderstanding and said he would have no difficulty resolving it, while also making clear that Ronaldo must determine whether he wants to return to represent his country.

Ronaldo’s absence did not prevent Portugal from reaching the next stage, with the side securing consecutive victories after he left the squad. Their latest success was made more difficult by Conceicao’s late red card, but Portugal retained their lead against Norway to complete their qualification.