Jorge Jesus set for Portugal bow as Cristiano Ronaldo, 41, expected to start against Wales | OneFootball

Portugal begin a new era under Jorge Jesus on Thursday, with Cristiano Ronaldo, 41, due to lead the line against Wales in the Nations League.

According to L'Équipe, Ronaldo will start, with kick-off at 20:45 in Jesus's first game in charge.

Their time together with the national team began on Tuesday. The 72-year-old coach and his captain showed an immediate understanding in the first training session.

The pair won the Saudi title together last spring at Al Nassr, a trophy Ronaldo had been chasing for three and a half years. In one season at the club, the new Portugal head coach and the five-time Ballon d'Or winner had time to gauge each other.

In 2025, Jorge Jesus said he could not refuse the challenge set by Ronaldo. He used that line to justify his return to Saudi Arabia, where he had already won everything with Al Hilal.

Both remain driven to extend their story, although how long that can continue remains an open question.

Source: L'Équipe

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