Portuguese football star Cristiano Ronaldo has been handed a 30-day suspension and a €255 fine by the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) after leaving the national team camp without permission. However, with much of the suspension period already served, the 41-year-old is not expected to miss any of Portugal’s upcoming matches because of the punishment.
The incident took place in September, when Ronaldo withdrew from Portugal’s Nations League squad following disagreements over his role in the team. After being left on the bench against Norway, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner learned that he would also not be included in the starting line-up for the match against Denmark on 1 October. He subsequently decided to leave the national team camp.
The decision sparked debate in Portuguese football, raising questions about team discipline, the responsibilities of a national captain and the relationship between Ronaldo and the coaching staff. The matter was eventually referred to the disciplinary committee of the Portuguese Football Federation, which imposed the suspension and fine.
Ronaldo Accuses Coach of Breaking Promises
Explaining his decision to leave the camp, Ronaldo accused Portugal coach Jorge Jesus of breaking promises made to him on two occasions. He described the situation as a serious breach of trust, suggesting that the disagreement over his role in the team had influenced his decision.
Jesus, however, denied having made any agreement with the forward. The differing accounts have highlighted the tension between the player and the coaching staff, although the possibility of Ronaldo returning to the national team remains open.
Suspension Period Nearly Over
There is some relief for Ronaldo and his supporters, as 19 days of the 30-day suspension had already elapsed when the situation was reported. The punishment took effect on the day of Portugal’s match against Denmark on 1 October. As a result, the remaining period is not expected to force him to miss any of Portugal’s forthcoming fixtures.
The FPF disciplinary committee said it had considered Ronaldo’s remorse, contribution to football and achievements throughout his career when determining the punishment. His response to the disciplinary proceedings and his record in the game were among the factors taken into account.
During his defence, Ronaldo submitted details of his awards and career achievements. He had also previously acknowledged his mistake and referred to apologising to his team-mates and supporters. The forward reportedly accepted that he deserved to be punished for his conduct.
His willingness to accept responsibility was among the circumstances considered by the disciplinary committee. Nevertheless, the suspension underlines the importance the federation places on discipline and the obligations of players representing the national team.
Federation Keen to Bring Ronaldo Back
The Portuguese football authorities have also indicated that they would welcome Ronaldo’s return. FPF president Pedro Proença expressed a strong desire to bring the veteran forward back into the national set-up.
Speaking to Portuguese newspaper Record, Proença said the federation wanted Ronaldo to return once the matter had been resolved. His comments suggest that, despite the disciplinary action, the governing body does not want the dispute to permanently damage its relationship with one of the country’s most celebrated players.
Jesus’s denial of any agreement with Ronaldo means that differences between the two still need to be addressed. How the disagreement is resolved could prove important for Portugal as the team prepares for its forthcoming international commitments.
Ronaldo’s Record Remains Central to Portugal’s Plans
Ronaldo remains one of the most influential figures in Portuguese football history. He has scored 146 goals in 234 appearances for his country, making him the leading goalscorer in men’s international football.
His international career includes helping Portugal win the European Championship in 2016 and two UEFA Nations League titles. Over the years, he has played a central role in the national team’s attacking plans and has helped establish Portugal as a major force in international football.
Although he is now 41, Ronaldo’s experience and record continue to make him an important figure for the national side. His future involvement, however, will depend not only on his performances but also on maintaining a constructive relationship with the coaching staff and federation.
At club level, Ronaldo plays for Saudi Arabian side Al-Nassr, which he joined in December 2022. His contract with the club has since been extended, allowing him to continue his career in the Saudi Pro League alongside his international ambitions.
The departure from Portugal’s national team camp has become a contentious episode in Ronaldo’s career. Yet the suspension is unlikely to disrupt his immediate international schedule. Attention will now turn to whether the player, coach and federation can resolve their differences and move forward together.
