LISBON: Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus has said Cristiano Ronaldo remains welcome in the national team, but any decision over his return will ultimately be made by the veteran forward himself.
The 41-year-old Ronaldo recently left Portugal’s Nations League camp after being named as a substitute against Norway and subsequently being informed that he would not start against Denmark.
Following the developments, Ronaldo wrote on social media that he would explain to the Portuguese public, at the appropriate time, the reasons behind his decision to step away from the national team.
Jesus said he wants Ronaldo to be able to decide how and when he brings his international career to an end.
According to the coach, Ronaldo remains an important figure for Portugal, but the final decision about returning to the national side rests entirely with the football superstar.
Jesus is also familiar with Ronaldo from club football, having previously coached him at Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr.
Ronaldo has made 234 appearances for Portugal and scored 146 international goals, both figures representing world records. He has also played a key role in Portugal’s major international successes, including their Euro 2016 triumph and two UEFA Nations League titles.
Whether Ronaldo makes another return to international football now depends on one question: what does the legendary forward want for the final chapter of his Portugal career?