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Jorge Jesus Appointed Portugal Coach, Keeps Door Open to Cristiano Ronaldo

The Portuguese Football Federation signed Jesus to a four-year deal through the 2030 World Cup, signaling a merit-based reset with individual player talks planned.

Overview

  • The Portuguese Football Federation announced on Friday that Jorge Jesus has signed a four-year contract to lead the national team through the 2030 World Cup.
  • Jesus said he has not yet spoken to Cristiano Ronaldo and that he will call the 41-year-old up only if Ronaldo is playing and meets the coach's fitness and performance standards.
  • The new coach and Ronaldo worked together at Al‑Nassr last season, where they won the Saudi Pro League and Jesus said he managed Ronaldo's minutes by making regular substitutions.
  • Jesus pledged a merit-based selection process and promised to hold individual conversations with every squad member before making long-term choices, while identifying a small leadership group among senior players.
  • His first assignment will be Nations League windows as he balances integrating younger players, reshaping tactics and preparing for Euro 2028 and Portugal's co-hosting role at the 2030 World Cup.