Ronaldo Names In Portugal’s Provisional Squad Despite Walkout Row

Cristiano Ronaldo has been included in Portugal’s preliminary squad for the November international fixtures despite tensions following his reported walkout from the national team camp during the previous international break.

The 41-year-old Al-Nassr forward is among the players being considered for Portugal’s final squad ahead of their Nations League Group A4 matches against Denmark and Wales.

According to Portuguese newspaper O Jogo, Ronaldo’s inclusion in the preliminary list suggests the possibility of a resolution to the dispute involving the veteran captain and head coach Jorge Jesus.

The forward’s international future had come under scrutiny following a reported confrontation with Jesus in September.

Ronaldo was reportedly unhappy after being left on the bench against Norway in Oslo, with tensions escalating before he left the camp ahead of Portugal’s subsequent fixture against Denmark.

The incident sparked speculation about his relationship with the coaching staff and whether he would remain part of the national team set-up.

However, his inclusion in the preliminary selection indicates that a return remains possible, although his place in the final squad is yet to be confirmed.

Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr team-mates João Félix and Samu Costa are also included in the preliminary list.

Portugal are scheduled to face Denmark in Braga before travelling to Cardiff to take on Wales in their final Nations League Group A4 fixtures.

The final squad announcement is expected on Friday, November 6.

Ronaldo’s potential return has also been facilitated by the timing of a disciplinary sanction imposed following the September incident.

The Portuguese Football Federation’s Disciplinary Council handed him a 30-day suspension, which is scheduled to expire on October 30.

The suspension is therefore expected to have run its course before Jesus names his final squad for the November matches.

Despite the controversy, Ronaldo’s experience and standing in Portuguese football mean his possible return remains a major talking point ahead of the fixtures.

His inclusion in the preliminary list, however, does not guarantee selection for the final squad.