Jorge Jesus begins Portugal reign with Ronaldo, 4 new faces in squad
New Portugal manager Jorge Jesus has announced his first squad for the UEFA Nations League, featuring 41-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo. Jesus emphasized that selection will be based on current performance rather than past reputation.
Why it matters
The decision marks a potential shift in Portugal's football strategy as the team transitions into a new era following the 2026 World Cup.
Jorge Jesus has named his first squad as Portugal's new manager for the upcoming UEFA Nations League matches. Cristiano Ronaldo, 41, is included in the squad, but his selection will be based on performance, not reputation. The 25-man roster features four new players who were not part of the 2026 World Cup team. Portugal will begin its Nations League campaign against Wales on Sept. 24 in Lisbon. Cristiano Ronaldo has been included in Jorge Jesus ' first squad as Portugal manager, with goalkeeper Samuel Soares , defender Nuno Tavares , midfielder João Palhinha and forward Fábio Silva among the new faces selected for the opening matches of the 2026-27 UEFA Nations League campaign.
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