Jorge Jesus has been announced as the new Portugal manager on a four year deal, an attention quickly turned to Cristiano Ronaldo.
A former Benfica and Sporting coach plus a serial winner in multiple other countries, Jesus was clearly the outstanding candidate.
He replaces Spaniard Roberto Martinez, who stepped aside after a last 16 exit against Spain.
Captain Ronaldo started every game at the tournament despite being 41, and became a regular stick to beat Martinez with.
Jesus was his club coach last season, landing him his first major trophy in Saudi Arabia with Al Nassr.
So understandably, his introduction to the media quickly turned to Ronaldo.
Jesus discusses Ronaldo’s role with Portugal
“I haven’t spoken to Cris yet,” he said. “It will never be a problem for the national team or for me.
“Regarding the controversy, everyone is entitled to their own opinion. I will speak with Cris and everyone individually.
“Cris is a symbol of Portugal and I had great pleasure working with him. It’s very easy to work with him. He just needs to understand where he can go and where I can go.
“But I have to talk to him to find out what he wants to do. He always told me he wants to finish at Al Nassr, now it remains to be seen what will be best for him.”
Ronaldo could still play at Euro 2028
Ronaldo confirmed he was playing at his final World Cup, but kept the door open to a potential Euro 2028 appearance.
At a heated press conference, he said: “Yes, it’s my last one [World Cup]. Let’s go and enjoy it.”
“I will retire when I want, not when you want. Whether I play or I stay on the bench, the influence will not change.”
He added: “Regarding Cris, he played 31 out of 50 games last year.
“I substituted him 16 times and there were never any problems.”
Jesus explains his decision to join Portugal
Jesus has never coached an international team, but confirmed he rejected Brazil recently.
Discussing the differences, he said: “There’s a tendency to say that a national team coach is different from a team coach. That’s not true.
“The difference is the method because there isn’t as much time. Football isn’t an exact science, but it is a science.
“I prepared myself a lot and studied for this challenge, but it won’t be different from working with a team.”
Asked if he feels pressure to win, he continued: “I’m already used to it and I like it. I have good working conditions and this motto fits.
“I’m 71 years old but I feel like I’m 50 because I’m healthy. I train every day. It will be a difficult challenge, but I believe we will win.”
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