Jorge Jesus takes over as Portugal coach, says Ronaldo 'is not a problem'

LISBON — Jorge Jesus was officially appointed as the new head coach of the Portugal national football team on Thursday, succeeding Roberto Martinez following Portugal's exit from 2026 World Cup qualifying. Jesus was presented at a press conference in the Portuguese capital, where he thanked the president of the Portuguese Football Federation for the appointment and called the chance to coach one of the world's top national teams a great honor. Jesus said his objective was victory and that Portugal could lift its performance with the quality of players available. Asked about captain Cristiano Ronaldo, the new coach said he had not yet been in contact with the forward but planned to hold one-on-one talks with him soon. He stressed that Ronaldo would not be an obstacle for Portugal, describing the 40-year-old as a national icon and saying he looked forward to working with him. Jesus also noted that Ronaldo has previously expressed a wish to end his playing career at Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr. Martinez left the post after Portugal failed to advance in the 2026 World Cup qualifying process. No further details on Jesus's first matches in charge were immediately announced.