Cristiano Ronaldo has been suspended for 30 days and fined 255 euros (£215) by the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) after leaving the national team camp last month. The 41-year-old captain walked out of Portugal’s Nations League squad following the match against Norway, where he was left on the bench, and after learning he would not start the next fixture against Denmark on 1 October.
Ronaldo publicly accused Portugal coach Jorge Jesus of breaching his trust, saying in a lengthy statement that the manager had twice broken his word. The FPF’s disciplinary committee took Ronaldo’s apology and acceptance of responsibility into account, as well as his long career achievements and contributions to football, when deciding on the sanction.
The suspension started on 1 October, meaning Ronaldo has already served 19 days and will not miss any upcoming Portugal matches. The national team is set to face Denmark again in the Nations League on 14 November, before travelling to Wales three days later.
The FPF highlighted Ronaldo’s remorse and the inclusion of his career CV as part of his defence. The forward had acknowledged his actions and apologised to his teammates and fans, accepting that he deserved to be punished.
Jorge Jesus denied making any agreement with Ronaldo regarding his playing time but has not ruled out the striker’s return to the squad. Pedro Proenca, president of the FPF, told Portuguese outlet Record that there is a “strong desire” to have Ronaldo back once the matter is resolved.
Ronaldo holds the record for the most goals and appearances in men’s international football, with 146 goals in 234 games for Portugal. His achievements include winning Euro 2016 and two Nations League titles with the national team.
Since joining Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr in December 2022, Ronaldo reportedly signed a contract worth £177 million annually and extended that contract last year.
The suspension and fine follow Ronaldo’s decision to leave the Portugal camp after being sidelined in the Norway match and then informed he would not start against Denmark. The forward’s departure sparked debate about his future with the national team, with Ronaldo stating he wanted to accept punishment but not retire from international football.
The latest development leaves the door open for Ronaldo’s return to Portugal’s squad, with upcoming Nations League fixtures providing the stage for his potential comeback.
According to BBC Sports.
