Arabic version: رونالدو ضمن أول قائمة للبرتغال تحت قيادة جورجي جيسوس
According to BBC News, Cristiano Ronaldo has been named in new Portugal coach Jorge Jesus’ first squad, ending speculation that the 41-year-old could retire from international football.
The Al-Nassr forward is among 25 players selected for Portugal’s four Nations League matches from 24 September to 4 October. Ronaldo had declined to confirm his international future after Portugal lost to eventual World Cup winners Spain in the round of 16 in July.
Jesus has succeeded Roberto Martinez, who stepped down following Portugal’s World Cup exit. The 72-year-old worked with Ronaldo at Al-Nassr last season, when they helped the club win the Saudi Pro League for the first time in seven years.
Ronaldo, who has scored 146 goals in 233 Portugal appearances, had said this summer’s World Cup would be his last. Portugal’s schedule begins at home to Wales on 24 September, followed by a trip to Norway on 27 September. They then visit Denmark on 1 October before hosting Norway on 4 October.
Manchester United’s Diogo Dalot and Bruno Fernandes are also in the squad, alongside Manchester City’s Ruben Dias and Chelsea’s Pedro Neto.
