Cristiano Ronaldo has been suspended for 30 days and fined €255 by the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) after he left the team camp in a disagreement over his position in the team.
The federation’s disciplinary council announced on Monday that it had confirmed the decision to charge the Al-Nassr forward with violating Article 160(1) of its disciplinary code on purpose.
Ronaldo has been at odds with Portugal coach Jorge Jesus on the international stage. Ronaldo exited Portugal’s camp in Copenhagen for the Nations League match with Denmark, having sat on the bench in their game against Norway. The 41-year-old was said to be annoyed with his inclusion in the squad.
Jesus denied reaching any deal with Ronaldo, saying however, the forward could return to the national team after his side secured a 2-1 win over Norway.
Disciplinary proceedings were filed on October 9, two days after the incident occurred. But the FPF didn’t specify which matches or activities would be under suspension or if any provisional punishment would be part of the final sanctions.
Ronaldo subsequently revealed he was remorseful for not acknowledging his supporters after the Norway game and for walking away from his teammates, though he said he was happy to return if he served punishment.
The FPF have also said they would welcome the player back once the case was closed, meaning it would remain uncertain whether he would play for his country again. FPF president Pedro Proença said: “We want the player back, but it is a decision that has to be taken later.”
