By Milton Marima
Portugal have left the door open for Cristiano Ronaldo to return to the national team after the five-time Ballon d’Or winner unexpectedly left the squad during the latest international break.
Ronaldo, 41, departed Portugal’s training camp after being an unused substitute in the team’s victory over Norway and learning that he would not start against Denmark.
His decision sparked speculation over his future with the national team.
However, Portugal coach Jorge Jesus has made it clear that Ronaldo can return if he chooses, with the decision ultimately resting with the veteran forward.
Portuguese Football Federation president Pedro Proença has also described the situation as a misunderstanding and reaffirmed Ronaldo’s importance to the national team.
Despite Ronaldo’s absence, Portugal maintained their strong form, beating Denmark 4-2 before defeating Norway 2-1 to secure a place in the Nations League quarter-finals.
Ronaldo remains Portugal’s all-time leading scorer and most-capped player, having scored 146 international goals in 234 appearances.
The major question now is whether the legendary forward will return when Portugal’s next international window opens in November.
