Jesus: Ronaldo will never be a problem for the Portuguese national team or for me

Jorge Jesus confirmed on Friday, after being officially appointed as the new coach of the Portuguese national football team, succeeding Spaniard Roberto Martínez who left his post after elimination from the round of 16 of the World Cup, that he will call up veteran star Cristiano Ronaldo if he is available, stressing that the striker 'will never' be a problem.

The 41-year-old had been criticized for his performances in the World Cup this summer under Martínez, who announced the end of his tenure with the national team after the round of 16 exit on Monday at the hands of Spain (0-1). It is true that Ronaldo had confirmed his participation in what was his last World Cup, but he has not spoken about retiring from international play.

Jesus told reporters on Friday during his official presentation: 'As long as he continues to play and has the readiness that qualifies him to be called up to the squad, I will call him up within certain limits and under the conditions that I see as best for the national team.'

The 71-year-old coach revealed that he has not yet spoken with Ronaldo, but they will discuss the future of the Al-Nassr star in the game.

He said: 'I have not spoken with Cris yet... Cris will never be a problem for the national team. Not for the team nor for me.'

He added: 'Cris is a symbol of Portuguese football. Cris is a symbol of the national team... and will remain so forever in the history books. I was very pleased to work with him over the past year (with Al-Nassr)... It is easy to work with him...'

He continued: 'We will have a conversation between us about what he wants to do in the next phase of his career.'

Jesus oversaw the coaching of Ronaldo, the five-time Ballon d'Or winner, at Al-Nassr before his departure in May after leading the team to the Saudi League title.

Jesus added: 'I know that (Ronaldo) wants to continue playing for Al-Nassr, because, as you know, I spent a year with him. He always told me, "I will end my career at Al-Nassr."'

Jesus will lead Portugal until after the 2030 World Cup, which his country will co-host with Spain and Morocco.