World Cup 2026: Jorge Jesus named Portugal’s new head coach

He added: “As long as he plays and is in condition to be selected, I will select him within certain limits and in terms of what I consider best for the national team.

“I haven’t spoken to (Ronaldo) yet. (He’s) never going to be a problem for the national team. Not for the national team, not for me.

“I really enjoyed working with him last year, (he’s) easy to work with.”

Jesus will make his debut in Portugal’s Nations League opening Group D game against Wales on 24 September.

After four years, Portugal is jointly hosting the World Cup with Spain and Morocco.

Jesus, who won the domestic treble with Saudi club Al Hilal in the 2023-24 season, won three league titles in his first spell as manager of Portuguese side Benfica in 2010, 2014 and 2015.

The Portuguese has enjoyed success in Brazil in his one year with Flamengo, winning five major trophies including the Brazilian title and Copa Libertadores in 2019.