Dowman's England call-up is the kind of move that rewards form over reputation, and it's refreshing to see someone actually earning it. • Zakaria pulling out of the Switzerland squad is either smart management or a sign that something's genuinely wrong, and Monaco aren't saying which. • City are doing what City do—winning when it matters—while Tottenham's position at the bottom is less a surprise and more a confirmation of what everyone's known for weeks. • Carrick's right to be livid: that handball is a penalty in any sensible interpretation, and VAR's explanation will be precisely as convincing as it always is when you disagree with it. • Atlético hitting back at Mourinho with a printer message is either the funniest thing Madrid's done this season or a cry for help—probably both. Dowman's England call-up is the kind of move that rewards form over reputation, and it's refreshing to see someone actually earning it. • Zakaria pulling out of the Switzerland squad is either smart management or a sign that something's genuinely wrong, and Monaco aren't saying which. • City are doing what City do—winning when it matters—while Tottenham's position at the bottom is less a surprise and more a confirmation of what everyone's known for weeks. • Carrick's right to be livid: that handball is a penalty in any sensible interpretation, and VAR's explanation will be precisely as convincing as it always is when you disagree with it. • Atlético hitting back at Mourinho with a printer message is either the funniest thing Madrid's done this season or a cry for help—probably both.

World Cup

Ronaldo, 41, stays with Portugal, named in squad

By WAF News Desk September 19, 2026 1:46 pm Updated September 21, 2026 1:11 am 1 min read

Cristiano Ronaldo was included in Portugal’s squad by new coach Jorge Jesus for their upcoming Nations League games on Friday.

WAF Context

4 sources

Cristiano Ronaldo, aged 41, has been included in Portugal's squad for upcoming Nations League matches under new coach Jorge Jesus. The selection comes after Ronaldo suggested last month that he may be approaching the final year of his playing career. He is expected to remain available for Portugal through the end of 2026.

What we know

Ronaldo was named in Portugal's Nations League squad by Jorge Jesus.
Ronaldo previously hinted he is in his final year of football.
Reports indicate Ronaldo will continue with Portugal until end of 2026.

Why it matters

Ronaldo's continued involvement extends his international tenure at 41 and clarifies his playing future beyond earlier retirement hints. His availability for Portugal's Nations League campaign provides certainty for selection planning under new management.

Read Full Story at ESPN FC