Portugal announce Cristiano Ronaldo’s Former Al Nassr Coach as New Head Coach, But Will Cristiano Play?

The Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) has officially named Jorge Jesus as the new head coach of the national team.

The 71-year-old veteran manager has signed a four-year contract running until June 2030, committing him to guide Portugal through Euro 2028 and the 2030 FIFA World Cup, which the country will co-host alongside Spain and Morocco.

Jesus replaces Roberto Martínez, who stepped down following Portugal’s disappointing round-of-16 exit at the 2026 World Cup after a 1-0 defeat to Spain. The appointment comes just days after Martínez’s departure, with the FPF moving swiftly to begin a new cycle. Jesus joins as a free agent after successfully leading Al-Nassr to the Saudi Pro League title in the 2025-26 season, where he coached stars including Cristiano Ronaldo and Joao Felix.

A highly experienced tactician, Jesus boasts an impressive CV that includes 10 major trophies with Benfica, the Copa Libertadores and Brazilian Serie A with Flamengo, and domestic titles with both Al-Hilal and Al-Nassr. Known for his passionate, attacking style and strong leadership, he will take charge of a national team for the first time in a career spanning nearly four decades.

FPF President Pedro Proença described Jesus as the ideal candidate to restore confidence and ambition to the Seleção. The coach is expected to be formally presented at a press conference later today at the Cidade do Futebol in Oeiras.

How much Money will Jesus earn?

Jesus is understood to have accepted a significant salary reduction from his previous deals in Saudi Arabia to take on what many consider the pinnacle of his coaching journey. His first major task will be preparing the team for the upcoming UEFA Nations League campaign, where Portugal will defend their 2025 title.

Will Cristiano Ronaldo play for Portugal?

In terms of the availability of Cristiano Ronaldo, the situation remains unclear. The 41-year-old played his last World Cup as Portugal crashed out in the Round of 16 stage, but his international future remains a matter of discussion, with the Portugal star indicating he has no such plans to hang his boots for his country right now. But the situation shall only be clear when Jesus picks his first squad, which is to happen in September.