Cristiano Ronaldo’s future with Portugal has been thrown into doubt after his sister Elma Aveiro suggested that a return to international football looks increasingly unlikely following his reported disagreement with head coach Jorge Jesus.
The 41-year-old forward unexpectedly left Portugal’s Nations League camp during the recent international break after being left on the bench during a 2-1 victory against Norway.
Cristiano Ronaldo waves Saudi flag scarf after missile alert delays Al-Nassr match in Riyadh
The decision reportedly triggered tensions between Ronaldo and Jesus, raising questions about their relationship and the legendary striker’s future with the national team.
Speaking at a book launch on Wednesday, Aveiro offered a pessimistic assessment of her younger brother’s prospects of returning to the Portugal squad.
Jesus was also present at the event, meaning her remarks added another dimension to the developing controversy.
“It’s more likely a no than a yes. I think both [Ronaldo and Jesus] are hurt. It was a situation they experienced, not me, I’m speaking for my brother,” Aveiro said.
“I think it’s a situation that’s stalled, we’ll see what happens. I don’t know, it’s very complicated. When we’re betrayed, it’s very difficult to go back to normal.”
Her comments have intensified speculation about whether Portugal’s record goalscorer could be approaching the end of his international career, despite previously expressing his desire to continue representing his country.
Ronaldo’s international future depends on resolving the dispute
Aveiro also expressed disappointment over what she considers a lack of appreciation for Ronaldo’s contributions to Portuguese football.
She believes his achievements deserve greater recognition and admitted that watching her brother experience the controversy has been deeply upsetting.
Her concerns echo those voiced by Ronaldo’s mother, Dolores Aveiro, who reportedly broke down in tears following her son’s dramatic departure from the national team camp.
Ronaldo later published a lengthy statement explaining his position, claiming that Jesus had broken his word over the circumstances surrounding his playing time.
However, the Al-Nassr forward also insisted that he remained willing to represent Portugal and would accept any disciplinary punishment imposed by the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF).
The federation subsequently confirmed that Ronaldo faced a provisional suspension while disciplinary proceedings continued. The final outcome remains uncertain, with details of the investigation being kept confidential until its conclusion.
Despite the tension, Ronaldo’s international teammates are hopeful that the situation can be resolved.
Portugal midfielder Vitinha recently called for reconciliation, stressing that he wanted the dispute settled and hoped the veteran forward would return to the squad.
"For my part, I just hope everything gets resolved for the best. I hope he [Ronaldo] returns and that everything turns out fine. The truth is, that's what we all want. I hope he comes back and everything is sorted out,” said Vitinha.
Ronaldo’s record of 146 goals in 234 appearances underlines his importance to Portugal, making uncertainty surrounding his availability a major talking point ahead of the team’s upcoming fixtures against Denmark and Wales.
Portugal secured victories during the recent international break without their captain, demonstrating that the squad can continue competing in his absence.
Nevertheless, his potential return remains a significant issue for supporters and teammates alike.