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Portugal Boss Leaves Door Open for Cristiano Ronaldo Return Cristiano Ronaldo's international future remains uncertain, but Portugal have made it clear that the door to a return is still open. Head coach Jorge Jesus said the 41-year-old forward can be selected again if he wants to represent Portugal, following Ronaldo's unexpected departure from the national-team camp during the latest international window. Ronaldo left the squad after being an unused substitute in Portugal's 2-1 Nations League victory over Norway. He had also learned that he would not be in the starting XI for the following match against Denmark, a situation that contributed to his decision to leave the camp. The episode immediately raised questions about whether Ronaldo's extraordinary international career had reached its end. However, Jesus has insisted that the situation does not necessarily mean the veteran forward is finished with Portugal. According to the coach, Ronaldo remains eligible for the next squad selection provided he continues playing for Al-Nassr and wants to return. Jesus also made it clear that the final decision belongs to the player himself. Jesus has previously worked with Ronaldo at Al-Nassr, giving the Portuguese coach an understanding of the striker's importance and personality. He explained that from his first Portugal call-up, he had told Ronaldo that he wanted him close to the team, whether he was playing or sitting on the bench. That position has not changed. Jesus believes Ronaldo should have the freedom to decide how and when he wants to finish his international career. Rather than announcing Ronaldo's retirement himself, the coach has left the decision in the hands of the Portugal captain. Portugal Football Federation president Pedro Proença has also attempted to calm the situation. He described what happened as a misunderstanding and stressed that Ronaldo remains part of the national team's plans when selected on sporting merit. Portugal have also demonstrated that they can win without their long-time captain. They defeated Denmark 4-2 before completing another comeback against Norway, winning 2-1 to maintain a perfect record in their Nations League group. The victory over Norway also secured Portugal's place in the Nations League quarter-finals, making them the first team to qualify for the last eight of the competition. Despite his absence, Ronaldo remains one of the most important figures in Portuguese football history. He is the country's record goalscorer and most-capped player, with 146 international goals in 234 appearances. The next opportunity for a reunion could come during the November international window. Portugal are scheduled to face Denmark at home on November 14 before travelling to Wales three days later. For now, however, Ronaldo's return is entirely his decision. Portugal have made their position clear: if the veteran forward wants to continue his international career, the national-team door remains open. After more than two decades representing his country, the final chapter of Ronaldo's Portugal career may therefore not have been written yet.