Archive · 19 Sep 2026
Ronaldo Included in Portugal Squad Despite World Cup Criticism
Cristiano Ronaldo was chosen to play for Portugal in the Nations League.
Jorge Jesus is Portugal’s new coach and included Ronaldo in his first team selection.
Ronaldo is 41 years old and has said this may be his final season.
He has scored more goals for his country than any other man in international football.
He has made 233 appearances for Portugal and scored 146 goals.
Ronaldo’s performances at the last World Cup were criticized.
Portugal begins its Nations League schedule against Wales on September 24.
The team will later play Norway and Denmark in the opening part of the campaign.
Cristiano Ronaldo was named in Portugal’s squad for the 2026-27 UEFA Nations League campaign.
The 41-year-old forward could be entering his final football season after saying it would “probably” be his last.
Jorge Jesus selected Ronaldo in his first squad as Portugal coach after replacing Roberto Martinez.
Ronaldo has scored 146 international goals in 233 appearances and became the first player to score at six World Cups.
Portugal begins its Nations League campaign against Wales in Lisbon on September 24, followed by matches against Norway and Denmark.
- Who
- Cristiano Ronaldo, Jorge Jesus and the Portugal national football team are central to the story.
- What
- Ronaldo was included in Portugal’s squad for the 2026-27 UEFA Nations League campaign.
- When
- The squad was announced on September 18, 2026; Portugal’s first match is on September 24.
- Where
- Portugal opens against Wales in Lisbon, then plays Norway in Oslo and Denmark away.
- Why
- Jorge Jesus included Ronaldo while naming his first squad after replacing Roberto Martinez.
- Player
- Cristiano Ronaldo
- Portugal coach
- Jorge Jesus
- International goals
- 146 in 233 appearances
- Age
- 41
- Opening match
- Portugal vs Wales, September 24, 2026
- Tournament record
- Portugal has won the Nations League twice and is the reigning champion
- Previous coach
- Roberto Martinez