Cristiano Ronaldo isn't finished with Portugal just yet. The 41-year-old has been named in new head coach Jorge Jesus' first squad for the upcoming Nations League fixtures, keeping his international career alive for now.
Portugal open their campaign by hosting Wales on September 24, before away trips to Norway and Denmark. They then close out the group by welcoming Norway back to Lisbon on October 4.
Ronaldo had said the summer's World Cup would be his last, though he has never actually confirmed his retirement from international football. That ambiguity fuelled speculation over the summer, especially after Lionel Messi said his own goodbye to Argentina last month. Many wondered whether his great rival would follow suit. Instead, Ronaldo's name is right there in Jesus' 25-man squad.
A Familiar Face in the Dugout
Jesus knows Ronaldo well. The two worked together at Al-Nassr last season, helping the Saudi club win the Pro League title. He takes charge of Portugal having previously managed both Benfica and Sporting Lisbon, and was appointed to the national job in July after Roberto Martinez stepped down following Portugal's World Cup exit.
Ronaldo's Enduring Numbers
Whatever the questions about his longevity, the numbers remain staggering. Ronaldo is still the all-time leading scorer in men's international football with 146 goals, and last summer he became the first player ever to score at six different World Cups.
That milestone came with a caveat, though. His performances at the tournament also drew criticism from supporters unimpressed by his reduced mobility and lack of defensive work.
Should he still be involved come Euro 2028, Ronaldo will be 43 years old. For now, at least, he's not ready to call time on representing Portugal.
