Jorge Jesus Confirms Ronaldo Will Start vs Wales

Cristiano Ronaldo will start Portugal’s UEFA Nations League opener against Wales after new head coach Jorge Jesus confirmed his decision.

Portugal host Wales at the Estádio José Alvalade on Thursday, September 24, with Jesus preparing for his first competitive match in charge of the national team.

Speaking ahead of the game, Jesus confirmed that Ronaldo will be in the starting XI, provided there is no unexpected issue during the final training session.

“If nothing exceptional happens today, Ronaldo will start tomorrow,” Jesus said.

The decision means Ronaldo will immediately remain a central figure under Jesus, who knows the 41-year-old forward well from their time together at Al-Nassr.

However, Jesus also made it clear that Ronaldo's status does not guarantee him a starting place in every Portugal match.

The coach acknowledged Ronaldo's importance to the national team but stressed that he will manage the veteran carefully, particularly with Portugal facing four Nations League matches in a short period.

Jesus even joked that he would happily substitute Ronaldo if the captain scores one or two goals against Wales.

Portugal enter the competition as defending Nations League champions and will be looking to begin their title defence with a victory.

For Ronaldo, the match is another step in his continued international career after he decided to remain with Portugal following the 2026 World Cup.

The veteran forward has also identified two major targets for this stage of his career: helping Portugal win another Nations League title and reaching 1,000 career goals.