Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus has confirmed that Cristiano Ronaldo remains free to return to the national squad whenever he chooses, following a dramatic departure from the team's UEFA Nations League camp.

Ronaldo, 41, walked away from the squad after being named as an unused substitute in Portugal's match against Norway and subsequently learning he would not start against Denmark. The Al-Nassr forward reacted on social media, promising to reveal his full reasons to the Portuguese public in due course.

Jesus keeps communication channels open

Jesus, who has previously managed Ronaldo at Al-Nassr, was measured in his response. "If he wants to, he'll return to the national team," the coach said. "We can talk before the next call-up, but Cris is the one who's going to decide."

Portugal secured their place in the Nations League quarter-finals with a 2-1 victory over Norway on Sunday, leaving them six points clear of second-placed Denmark in Group A4. The defending champions now host Denmark on 14 November before travelling to Wales three days later.

Ronaldo's exit and its context

The friction began after Ronaldo was asked to warm up in the second half against Norway but never brought on — a situation that reportedly frustrated him. It marked the first time since 2008 that the former Manchester United and Real Madrid star had been an unused substitute for Portugal in a competitive fixture.

When Jesus announced ahead of the Denmark match that Ronaldo would again not start, the veteran captain left camp entirely. Ronaldo holds world records for both goals (146) and appearances (234) for Portugal.

Teammates back Ronaldo's return

Goalscorer Joao Cancelo spoke warmly to RTP following Sunday's win. "Cristiano is our captain, the best player Portugal has ever had," he said. "Things will certainly end in the best way but the important thing is the four victories."

Nuno Mendes echoed that sentiment: "Any player who comes to the national team is welcome, obviously. If Cris returns, we'll be here to receive him with open arms."

In Ronaldo's absence, AC Milan striker Goncalo Ramos has taken his opportunity, netting in all three of his starts. Ronaldo himself remains one of football's greatest ever players, having helped Portugal lift Euro 2016 and two Nations League titles, as well as claiming five Ballon d'Or awards throughout his career.