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Jesus stands beside his captain
The 71-year-old coach, who signed a four-year contract to lead the nation to the 2030 World Cup, believes Ronaldo still has a lot to offer on the international stage despite his advanced age.
Speaking to the media about his selection policy, Jorge Jesus insisted on the role of the Al-Nassr star. “As long as he plays and is fit to be selected, I will choose him, within certain limits and in the conditions that I consider best for the national team,” Jesus explained. The coach clearly relishes the 41-year-old’s presence, describing him as a “symbol of Portuguese football” who carries enormous weight in the dressing room.
Building on Saudi success
The relationship between Jesus and Ronaldo is built on a solid foundation of recent success. The two worked closely together at Al-Nassr, where they celebrated Saudi Pro League title glory before Jesus moved into the national team hot seat.
Jesus rejected any suggestion that managing such a high-profile figure would cause friction during his tenure. “I haven’t spoken with [Ronaldo] Again. [He] will never be a problem for the national team. Neither for the national team, nor for me,” he added. “I had a lot of fun working with him last year, [it’s] easy to work with.”
A new era after Martinez
Jesus’ appointment marks a significant change for Portugal following their disappointing exit from the 2026 World Cup.
Martinez was transparent on his departure, saying: “I came to Portugal to win the World Cup, and I think that without winning it there is no point in continuing. The board and the president now have the opportunity to choose the new manager…my contract ends today.” This opportunity was seized by Jesus, who now inherits
The road to 2030
While the immediate focus is on the UEFA Nations League clash against Wales in September, the long-term focus is the 2030 World Cup, which Portugal will co-host alongside Spain and Morocco. Jesus arrives with an elite CV, having won three league titles with Benfica and a historic domestic treble during his time with Al-Nassr’s rivals Al-Hilal.
The challenge for the veteran tactician will be to balance the integration of the “golden generation” of young Portuguese talents with the legacy of Ronaldo. By confirming CR7’s involvement from day one, Jesus is banking on the striker’s professionalism and fitness to guide the team through this critical transition period and towards a potential home trophy.
