Cristiano Ronaldo could have a different coach in charge for his final appearance for Portugal after a reported disagreement with manager Jorge Jesus over his retirement.

According to The Sun on Thursday, November 5, 2026, the 41-year-old has decided to retire after tensions with Jesus. The disagreement reportedly followed the manager’s decision to leave Ronaldo out of Portugal’s squad for September’s meeting with Norway.

Ronaldo, who previously played for Manchester United, was said to be unhappy with the omission. He reportedly left the camp before announcing his retirement. Despite that decision, he is still expected to make one final appearance for Portugal before ending more than two decades with the national side.

ESPN reports that Jesus is unlikely to oversee the farewell match because of the alleged breakdown in their relationship. Portugal could therefore turn to another experienced manager to lead the team on the occasion, with Luiz Felipe Scolari emerging as a leading candidate.

Scolari has a significant connection to Ronaldo’s journey. The Brazilian handed the forward his first appearance for Portugal in 2003. The two reportedly developed a close relationship, with Scolari also offering personal support after Ronaldo’s father died when the footballer was 20.

That history could make Scolari an appropriate choice for the farewell fixture. His appointment, however, has not been confirmed.

Fernando Santos, who managed Portugal between 2014 and 2022, is reportedly not being considered. Although he worked with Ronaldo for several years, their relationship was affected during the 2022 World Cup, when the forward was moved to the substitutes’ bench.

Ronaldo made his Portugal debut against Kazakhstan in August 2003. Since then, he has earned 234 caps and scored 146 goals, becoming the country’s record appearance-maker and leading scorer. His international achievements include helping Portugal win the 2016 European Championship and securing two UEFA Nations League titles.

In his announcement, Ronaldo reflected on representing his country and the difficulty of ending such a long chapter.

“The day has come back for me to hand back the number 7 shirt of our national team,” he said.

He added: “It was not an easy decision. Because some decisions are not made with the mind alone. They are also made with the heart.”

Despite reports of tension, Jesus has publicly praised Ronaldo’s contribution and standing within Portuguese football. The manager described him as a major figure for the country and a role model for younger players.

“Cristiano is a global icon, an example for Portugal and the national team,” Jesus said.

Jesus also acknowledged his decision, saying his achievements would remain valued. Whatever the arrangements for his final appearance, Ronaldo’s record, leadership and role in Portugal’s major international successes have secured his place in the country’s football history. The farewell match would provide an opportunity for supporters to recognise a player whose influence has extended across generations of Portuguese football. His potential farewell has therefore become a story not only about his final appearance, but also about the relationships surrounding his departure.