Portugal appoints Jorge Jesus as coach with Ronaldo's international future unresolved

Jorge Jesus was appointed Portugal head coach on Friday, two days after the Portuguese federation parted ways with Roberto Martínez following a 1-0 round-of-16 defeat to Spain at the World Cup.

The 71-year-old Jesus, who has managed Benfica, Sporting Lisbon and, most recently, Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr, steps into a role that immediately raises a pressing question: what next for Cristiano Ronaldo at international level?

Jesus coached Ronaldo at Al-Nassr and described him on Friday as a “symbol” of Portuguese sport, but stopped short of confirming the 41-year-old’s place in his plans. “That’s a conversation we’re both going to have. What does he want to do for the future of his career?” Jesus told reporters at his unveiling.

Ronaldo, men’s international football’s all-time leading scorer with 146 goals, stated during the World Cup that the tournament would be his last. He has not, however, announced a retirement date from international duty. He would be 43 by the time Euro 2028 arrives — the next major tournament on the horizon.

Portugal’s underwhelming World Cup campaign reignited debate about Ronaldo’s role, with critics questioning Martínez’s decision to continue deploying him as a central striker and building the team’s attack around him.

The Portuguese Football Federation announced the appointment on X, writing: “A new journey begins today. Welcome to the National Team, Mister Jorge Jesus.”

Whatever is decided on Ronaldo, Jesus inherits a squad rich in midfield talent. Bruno Fernandes, Vitinha and João Neves give Portugal genuine depth and quality in the engine room, and the new coach will be expected to build a more balanced attacking structure around that core.

Ronaldo remains under contract with Al-Nassr until 2027.