Ronaldo named in first Portugal squad since World Cup - at age of 41

Cristiano Ronaldo has been named in the first Portugal squad since the World Cup, at the age of 41. He was selected by the new Portugal manager Jorge Jesus, ending speculation that the 41‑year‑old might retire from international football. Ronaldo had not confirmed whether he would continue to play for his country after Portugal’s round‑of‑16 loss to eventual champions Spain in July. The Al‑Nassr forward is part of a 25‑man squad chosen for Portugal’s four Nations League matches scheduled between 24 September and 4 October. Jesus replaced Roberto Martinez, who stood down as Portugal coach after the World Cup exit. The 72‑year‑old coached Ronaldo at Al‑Nassr last season, a partnership that helped the club win the Saudi Pro League for the first time in seven years. The former Manchester United and Real Madrid striker, who had announced that this summer’s World Cup would be his last, was seen in tears after Portugal’s departure from the tournament. When asked about his future with the national side, he stated: "I volition conscionable the household and instrumentality decisions with a calm head." That remark sparked talk that he could follow his long‑time rival Lionel Messi into international retirement. Ronaldo will turn 42 before the next Nations League finals and will be 43 by the time Euro 2028 arrives. The oldest player ever to appear in a European Championship is his former Portugal teammate Pepe, who was 41 years and 130 days old for his final showing at Euro 2024. Also included in the call‑up are Manchester United’s Diogo Dalot and Bruno Fernandes, Manchester City’s Ruben Dias and Chelsea’s Pedro Neto. Portugal open the Nations League campaign at home to Wales on 24 September at 19:45 BST, travel to Norway three days later, face Denmark on 1 October and return to host Norway on 4 October. Read the full story at BBC News →