The king stays! Jorge Jesus explains why Ronaldo remains untouchable at 41
Jorge Jesus has delivered a passionate defense of Cristiano Ronaldo, calling the 41 year old forward a symbol of Portugal and confirming his total faith in the veteran.
Details: Speaking ahead of Portugal's Nations League clash with Wales, the new national team coach explained why he continues to build his project around CR7 despite the captain's age. Jesus had already made his position clear from day one, insisting that Ronaldo will never be a problem for the national team. The pair know each other perfectly: they won the Saudi Pro League title together at Al Nassr this season before Jesus took over the Portugal job from Roberto Martinez.
The words of Jesus carry extra weight given the debate that has followed Ronaldo in recent years. Critics have repeatedly questioned whether Portugal play better without their all time top scorer, but the numbers keep answering back: Ronaldo remains decisive for club and country, and his coach sees him as far more than just a player. Jesus has confirmed Ronaldo will start against Wales, though he joked that he might substitute the captain immediately if he scores one or two goals. Behind the humor lies a clear message: the era of Cristiano Ronaldo in the national team is not over, and the man in charge has no intention of ending it.
It's worth noting that Ronaldo's longevity has become one of the great stories in football history. At 41, he is preparing for yet another international campaign with a coach who trusts him unconditionally and a nation that still sees him as its face. If Jesus gets his way, the symbol of Portugal will keep writing chapters that seemed impossible for anyone else.
Reminder: Official: All 16 participants of the Messi Cup 2026 revealed!
Miguel Solomons
Dailysports's expert
