Nuno Mendes says Portugal would welcome Cristiano Ronaldo back with ‘open arms’

Nuno Mendes says Cristiano Ronaldo remains welcome in the Portugal squad, insisting the team would be delighted to see its captain return after his recent dispute with manager Jorge Jesus.

The Portugal full-back was speaking after his side beat Norway 2-1 in the fourth round of the Nations League. It was Portugal’s second victory over Norway in the competition and strengthened their position in the group.

Ronaldo’s absence has continued to attract attention following the latest disagreement with Jorge Jesus, which led to the forward leaving the national team’s training camp. That has prompted questions over whether he will return to the squad and what his future with Portugal might be.

“We naturally welcome any player,” Nuno Mendes said in a television interview after the match. “We are happy with the results we have achieved and, if Cristiano returns, we will welcome him with open arms and be very happy to have him with us.”

The Paris Saint-Germain defender stressed that the same welcome applied to every player currently missing from the squad.

“Whether it is Cristiano or any other player who is absent at the moment, everyone is always welcome to join the team again,” he added.

Mendes’ comments suggested that Ronaldo’s absence is not being viewed by the Portugal players as a crisis within the group. He also rejected speculation that the situation had caused divisions in the dressing room, underlining the unity within the squad.

“We are a united group and we will be happy to see any player return to the national team,” Mendes said.

Portugal have continued to produce strong performances and results in the Nations League, with the win over Norway extending their positive run in the tournament. Their latest success came while attention remained focused on Ronaldo and the circumstances surrounding his departure from the camp.

The former captain’s next return to the Portugal squad remains uncertain, with his future under Jorge Jesus still being closely watched. Mendes’ remarks made clear that the door is open to Ronaldo, as well as to all other absent players, while the team waits for the next stage and the timing of the captain’s possible return.