Cristiano Ronaldo has been included in Portugal’s preliminary squad for next month’s Nations League matches, raising the possibility of his return to international football after a dispute with coach Jorge Jesus.
A Portuguese football federation (FPF) source confirmed to AFP on Tuesday that the 41-year-old forward was being considered for the upcoming fixtures against Denmark and Wales on November 14 and 17.
The FPF spokesperson added that Jesus would announce his final squad on November 6.
Ronaldo left Portugal’s training camp abruptly on September 30 during the opening Nations League qualifiers. He later accused Jesus of breaking his promise to give him playing time against Norway.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner also complained that Jesus failed to mention at a press conference ahead of the Denmark match several points they had agreed upon.
Last week, the FPF announced a 30-day suspension for Ronaldo over his decision to leave the camp. However, the suspension was backdated, allowing him to return to action by the end of this week.
Ronaldo apologised to supporters earlier in October and said he would accept any punishment imposed on him. Despite the disagreement, he insisted he had no plans to retire from international football.
Portugal have won all four of their Nations League matches and secured a place in the quarter-finals with two games remaining. Three of those victories came without Ronaldo.
The former Manchester United and Real Madrid star remains the all-time leading goalscorer and record appearance-maker in men’s international football.
Ronaldo made his Portugal debut in 2003 at the age of 18. He has since suggested that this could “probably” be his final year in football.
His possible return now leaves fans waiting to see whether Jesus will include him in the final squad for the November fixtures.
