Jesus' first Portugal squad includes Ronaldo

Cristiano Ronaldo was picked in Jorge Jesus' inaugural squad, silencing rumors that he would retire from international football. After Portugal's July World Cup round-of-16 loss to eventual victors Spain, Ronaldo declined to say if he would play again. The Al-Nassr attacker is in Portugal's 25-man squad for four Nations League games from 24 September to 4 October. 

Jesus replaced Roberto Martinez, who resigned as Portugal coach following the World Cup. Last season, the 72-year-old managed Ronaldo and helped Al-Nassr win the Saudi Pro League for the first time in seven years. After Portugal's World Cup departure, the former Manchester United and Real Madrid attacker, who stated this summer's World Cup would be his last, cried. 

I will see the family and think about my decisions calmly,” he said when asked if he would keep playing for his country. The comments raised the possibility that he will retire from international football like Lionel Messi. 

Ronaldo will be 42 before the Nations League finals next summer and 43 before Euro 2028. Pepe, Ronaldo's former Portugal teammate, was 41 and 130 days old when he last played at Euro 2024. Diogo Dalot, Bruno Fernandes, Ruben Dias, and Pedro Neto are also in the team. On September 24, 19:45 BST, Portugal hosts Wales and three days later travels to Norway. After playing in Denmark on 1 October, they host Norway on 4 October.