Jesus Backs Cristiano Ronaldo, Takes Charge as Portugal Coach Until 2030

Lisbon, July 2026 : Newly appointed Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus has thrown his full support behind Cristiano Ronaldo, insisting the veteran superstar will remain part of the national team as long as he is fit, available and willing to represent his country.

The Portuguese Football Federation officially unveiled the 71-year-old as the new national team manager on Friday, entrusting him with the responsibility of leading Portugal through to the 2030 FIFA World Cup, which the nation will co-host alongside Spain and Morocco.

Jesus succeeds Roberto Martinez after Portugal’s disappointing 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign, which ended with a Round of 16 defeat to Spain. Ronaldo, who struggled to make a significant impact during the tournament, faced criticism over his performances and later revealed that the recently concluded World Cup was likely his final appearance at football’s biggest event. However, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner has yet to announce whether he intends to continue playing for Portugal in international competitions.

Addressing the media at his introductory press conference, Jesus made it clear that Ronaldo’s place in the national setup remains secure, provided the legendary striker continues to meet the team’s sporting requirements.

“As long as Cristiano is still playing and remains in the condition to be selected, I will continue to call him up, within the limits and conditions that I believe are best for the national team,” Jesus said.

The experienced coach revealed that he has not yet spoken with Ronaldo about his international future but plans to hold a private discussion with the former Manchester United, Real Madrid and Juventus star in the coming days.

“I haven’t spoken to Cris yet, but we will sit down and discuss what he wants for the future of his career,” Jesus explained.

He was equally emphatic in dismissing any suggestion that Ronaldo could become a distraction within the squad.

“Cristiano will never be a problem for the national team, and certainly not for me. He is one of the greatest symbols of Portuguese football and a player whose legacy will remain in the history of our country forever,” Jesus said.

The new Portugal manager also reflected on his recent experience working alongside Ronaldo at Saudi Pro League club Al-Nassr, where the pair enjoyed a successful season together before Jesus departed in May after guiding the club to the league title.

“I had great pleasure working with him over the past year. He’s an easy player to work with because he is a complete professional. I know how committed he remains to the game,” Jesus added.

According to the veteran coach, Ronaldo has consistently expressed his desire to finish his club career at Al-Nassr.

“He always told me that he intends to end his playing career at Al-Nassr. That has been his plan throughout our time together,” Jesus revealed.

Ronaldo remains Portugal’s all-time leading appearance-maker and goalscorer, having rewritten numerous records during an international career spanning more than two decades. Although questions continue to surround his future following the World Cup, Jesus appears determined to keep the door open for the 41-year-old icon.

The appointment marks another significant chapter in Jorge Jesus’ long managerial career, which has included successful spells with Benfica, Sporting CP, Flamengo, Fenerbahce, Al-Hilal and Al-Nassr. Renowned for his tactical discipline and attacking philosophy, Jesus now faces the challenge of blending experienced stars with Portugal’s emerging generation of talent.

With the UEFA European Championship qualifiers and preparations for the 2030 World Cup on the horizon, Portugal hopes the experienced coach can guide the national side back among football’s elite. Whether Ronaldo remains part of that journey will depend on discussions between the player and his new manager, but Jesus has already made one thing clear—Portugal’s greatest football icon will always have his respect and consideration.