This is a major step in the young career of Cristiano Ronaldo Júnior. Monday November 2, 2026, the Portuguese Football Federation formalized the presence of the 16-year-old striker in the U17 list to compete in the Euro 2027 qualifiers.
A first official call-up for the Portuguese U17s
Portuguese coach Filipe Ramos selected the son of Cristiano Ronaldo in a list of 23 players unveiled on Monday November 2, 2026 by the FPF. Playing in the youth categories of Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia, the versatile player, capable of playing up front or on the wings, has totaled 3 goals in 7 appearances this season under the colors of the Saudi club. A great mark of confidence. The eldest son of Cristiano Ronaldo thus reaches a highly anticipated milestone by entering this age category for the first time.
Constant progression since the U15s
This arrival among the under-17s rewards an already very successful career with the Seleção youth teams. Indeed, Cristiano Ronaldo Jr celebrated his international debut on May 13, 2025 with the U15s, a category with which he distinguished himself by winning the Vlatko Markovic tournament thanks to a double in the final. Promoted to the U16s from October 30, 2025, he compiled 3 goals in 9 matches and won two competitions, until his last outing on May 24, 2026. In total, his record amounts to 13 caps and 5 goals with Portugal.
A clear commitment with Portugal despite other options
Even if his future in the senior selection is not yet definitively sealed with regard to FIFA rules, Cristiano Ronaldo Jr confirms his loyalty to the Portuguese jersey. The 16-year-old striker nevertheless had several opportunities on the international scene, since he was potentially selectable by four other nations. Born in California, he could claim to defend the colors of the United States, but also of Spain due to a residence of more than three years, of England after his father’s visit to Manchester, or even of Cape Verde thanks to the origins of his paternal grandmother. However, the player continues his journey under the Portuguese tunic.
Three decisive matches before the A list
The preparation course will begin on November 6, 2026 at the federal center of Cidade do Futebol, in Oeiras in the suburbs of Lisbon. To advance to the next round of Euro U17 2027 qualifying, Portugal will have to finish among the first two in Group 6 during the three matches scheduled at home against Andorra on November 11, Bulgaria on November 14 and Serbia on November 17, 2026. Beyond the U17s, the focus is also on Cristiano Ronaldo senior (41 years old). After serving a 30-day suspension and a 255 euro fine following a disagreement with Jorge Jesus, his return is expected according to the Portuguese press in the A team list which will be announced on Friday November 6, 2026.