Ronaldo set for Portugal comeback after coach fallout

Cristiano Ronaldo could return to Portugal’s national team next month after resolving a dispute with coach Jorge Jesus. The 41-year-old forward has been included in the preliminary squad for the upcoming Nations League fixtures.

Ronaldo left Portugal’s camp on September 30 after disagreements over promised playing time and comments made by the coach ahead of a match against Denmark. He later apologised to supporters and accepted the disciplinary action imposed by the Portuguese Football Federation.

The federation handed Ronaldo a 30-day suspension, backdated to allow him to return by the end of October. The final squad is scheduled to be announced on November 6.

Portugal will face Denmark at home on November 14 before travelling to Wales for their November 17 fixture.

Despite Ronaldo’s absence from several matches, Portugal won all four of their Nations League games and secured qualification for the quarter-finals with two matches remaining.

Ronaldo remains the leading goalscorer and most-capped player in men’s international football. Having represented Portugal since 2003, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner has indicated that 2026 could be his final year in professional football.