The Upcoming Fixtures: Mark Your Calendars
The central question for every fan is simple: when does he play? Portugal has two matches scheduled for the September international window. The first sees them take on Wales at home in Lisbon's Estádio José Alvalade on September 24, 2026. Three days later,
on September 27, the team travels to Oslo for a challenging away fixture against Norway at Ullevaal Stadium. While a starting spot is never guaranteed, Ronaldo has been officially named in the 25-man squad by new manager Jorge Jesus, signalling a strong possibility of him featuring prominently in both encounters.
A New Era and High Stakes
These matches mark the beginning of a new chapter for the team under coach Jorge Jesus, who took over from Roberto Martínez following the 2026 World Cup. Jesus's first squad selection was highly anticipated, and his decision to include the 41-year-old Ronaldo confirms the veteran's continued importance to the national setup. These are not mere friendlies; the Nations League games are critical for Portugal's ambitions. The team competes in the top-tier League A, in a group alongside Wales, Norway, and Denmark. Securing points early on is essential for their campaign to win a competition they have previously conquered.
The Manager's Stance on a Legend
New coach Jorge Jesus has been clear about his selection philosophy. Speaking to the media, he emphasized that while Ronaldo has a unique status earned over a legendary career, his place in the team depends on his current performance. “He is a player like the others. If he delivers the required performance, he plays; if he does not, he will not play,” Jesus stated at a press conference. This performance-first approach appears to be a core principle for the new manager. However, Ronaldo’s inclusion from the very first squad indicates that Jesus believes the Al Nassr forward is still delivering at a level that benefits the national team.
Chasing More History
For Cristiano Ronaldo, every match in a Portugal shirt is another opportunity to extend his incredible records. He is already the all-time leading goalscorer in men's international football, with a staggering 146 goals in 233 appearances for his country. Fans will be eagerly watching to see if he can add to that tally against Wales and Norway. His presence adds a layer of excitement to any match, particularly the clash in Oslo, which could pit him directly against another of the world's most formidable strikers, Erling Haaland. Although Ronaldo has stated the 2026 World Cup was his last, he has not announced a retirement from international football, keeping the door open for more historic moments.
A Blend of Experience and New Talent
While Ronaldo's return grabs the headlines, the squad announced by Jorge Jesus showcases a potent mix of seasoned veterans and emerging talent. Alongside Ronaldo, the team features established stars like Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva, and Rúben Dias. The squad also includes newer faces and returning players such as Fábio Silva and João Palhinha, suggesting a focus on both immediate results and long-term development. This blend will be crucial as Portugal navigates a competitive Nations League group and builds towards future tournaments, balancing the immense experience of their captain with the energy of the next generation.
