The Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) has issued a 30-day suspension and a 255-euro (£215) fine to Cristiano Ronaldo following his unsanctioned exit from the national squad last month. The 41-year-old captain left the camp during the September Nations League window after sitting as an unused substitute against Norway and learning he would not start the subsequent match against Denmark on October 1.
Ronaldo publicly cited a disagreement with Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus as the catalyst for his departure. In a formal statement, the forward accused the manager of an “absolute breach of trust,” claiming that Jesus had “broke his word” to him on two separate occasions. While coach Jesus has denied making any specific agreements regarding playing time, he indicated that the door remains open for the veteran’s eventual return.
The disciplinary committee explained that they factored in the remorse expressed by the Al-Nassr star, who offered an apology to his teammates and supporters while acknowledging he deserved disciplinary action. The suspension is backdated to the day of the Denmark fixture, meaning Ronaldo has already completed 19 days of the ban and is expected to finish the remainder by the end of October. Before adding he deserved to be punished, he accepted accountability and apologised to his team-mates and fans for his actions.
Despite the current tension, FPF president Pedro Proenca expressed a “strong desire” to see the record-breaking captain rejoin the national side once the situation is fully resolved. Ronaldo, who joined Saudi club Al-Nassr in December 2022 on a reported £177m annual salary, remains the holder of the men’s world records with 146 goals in 234 international appearances.
A decorated figure in Portuguese football history, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner has been instrumental in the nation’s success, including their triumphs at Euro 2016 and two Nations League titles. The veteran forward signed a contract extension with his Saudi Arabian side last year.
