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Portugal coach Jorge Jesus has highlighted Cristiano Ronaldo’s extraordinary pulling power, revealing that a match in Hong Kong attracted only 3,000 fans without the forward but a full 55,000 when he played.
Jesus, who coached Ronaldo at Al-Nassr last season, used the striking attendance difference to explain why the 41-year-old remains a major figure for Portugal ahead of Thursday’s UEFA Nations League opener against Wales.
“Cris is a symbol of Portugal and the national team,” Jesus said, while stressing that Ronaldo’s status alone would not guarantee him a place in every match.
“The past doesn’t count. If he performs, he plays. If he doesn’t perform, he doesn’t play,” the coach had previously said about his captain.
Jesus said Ronaldo’s influence was evident during his time at Al-Nassr, recalling the huge difference in attendance when the Portuguese star was available.
“We played a game in Hong Kong without him and there were 3,000 people; when he played there were 55,000. That is the difference,” he said.
Jesus has confirmed that Ronaldo is expected to start against Wales at the Estadio Jose Alvalade, although he could be substituted depending on how the match develops. The coach joked that he would prefer Ronaldo to score once or twice before taking him off.
Ronaldo is also chasing a landmark 1,000th career goal and another Nations League title as Portugal begin their defence of the competition. He is currently 21 goals short of the 1,000-goal mark.
Jesus, appointed in July after Roberto Martinez left following Portugal’s World Cup exit, has also signalled tactical changes as he begins his tenure. Portugal will use a second forward against Wales, while the coach wants greater tactical flexibility during matches.
Ronaldo’s place in the squad comes despite Jesus making it clear that reputation will not override performance. The Portugal captain remains part of the 25-man squad for four Nations League matches between September 24 and October 4.
