Portugal coach, Jorge Jesus, has paid tribute to Cristiano Ronaldo following the forward’s retirement from international football, describing the former captain as a global icon and a major inspiration to the country’s footballers.
Jesus praised Ronaldo’s legacy with the national team, noting that his achievements and influence would continue to serve as a motivation for younger players.
He also revealed that he had displayed a large photograph of the Al-Nassr forward in the team’s auditorium to inspire emerging talents.
According to transfer football expert, Fabrizio Romano on X on Thursday, Jesus described Ronaldo as a symbol of excellence in Portuguese football.
“Cristiano is a global icon, an example for Portugal and the national team,” Jesus said.
“I had a huge photo of him put up in our auditorium so that all the young players could look up to him every single day.”
The coach further disclosed that he had personally appealed to Ronaldo to continue his international career, saying the veteran forward’s experience was valuable to the team.
However, Jesus acknowledged that he had to respect the player’s decision to step away from international football.
“I asked him to continue with me because I needed him by my side. But I have to accept his decision,” he added.
Jesus maintained that Ronaldo would remain an integral part of Portugal’s football history, stressing that his contributions to the national team had earned him an enduring place in the hearts of the country’s supporters.
“He will always have a place in the hearts of the Portuguese people. He will always be an icon of Portuguese football,” he said.
Ronaldo’s international career featured several landmark achievements, including captaining Portugal to victory at the 2016 European Championship and the 2019 UEFA Nations League.
The former Real Madrid and Manchester United forward established himself as one of the most influential players in Portuguese football history, setting numerous records during his time with the national team.
