Cristiano Ronaldo’s place in Portugal’s starting XI is no longer guaranteed, with head coach Jorge Jesus saying the veteran forward’s fitness and training performances will determine whether he starts future matches.
The 41-year-old was left on the bench for Portugal’s UEFA Nations League clash with Norway on Sunday, just three days after starting and playing nearly 70 minutes in the 1-0 victory over Wales.
Jesus explained that Ronaldo could not be expected to start every game during a demanding international schedule.
“Cris is not João Neves, who is 20 years old and capable of playing consecutive matches every three days,” Jesus said, according to reports from Portuguese media.
The decision marked the first time Ronaldo had been named among Portugal’s substitutes since September 2024. Gonçalo Ramos replaced him in the starting line-up against Norway.
Jesus had previously stressed that Ronaldo would be treated like every other player, despite his status as one of Portugal’s most decorated footballers. He said the forward’s performances in training and his physical condition would influence selection.
The decision was ultimately vindicated as Ramos scored the winning goal in Portugal’s 2-1 victory over Norway, giving the Nations League holders two wins from their opening two matches. Ronaldo remained an unused substitute.
Jesus, who coached Ronaldo at Al-Nassr last season, has previously said he wants the forward involved throughout Portugal’s Nations League campaign, but his latest decision suggests Ronaldo’s playing time could increasingly be managed according to his physical condition and the demands of each match.
Portugal will next face Denmark on October 1 before hosting Norway on October 4 as their Nations League title defence continues.
