Cristiano Ronaldo
Cristiano Ronaldo has been handed a 30-day suspension and fined €255 (£215) by the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) following his departure from the national team camp in September.
The 41-year-old captain left Portugal’s Nations League squad after being an unused substitute against Norway and learning that he would not start against Denmark on October 1.
In a lengthy statement, Ronaldo explained that his decision followed what he described as two broken promises by Portugal coach Jorge Jesus, accusing him of an “absolute breach of trust”.
However, the suspension will not affect Ronaldo’s international commitments, as it was backdated to the day of Portugal’s match against Denmark. He has already served 19 days of the ban and is not expected to miss any matches.
Portugal are scheduled to face Denmark again in the Nations League on November 14 before travelling to Wales three days later.
The FPF disciplinary committee said it considered the remorse expressed by Ronaldo in his statement, alongside his contributions to football and recognition for his sporting achievements, when determining the punishment.
The Al-Nassr forward also submitted his curriculum vitae, detailing his awards and accomplishments, as part of his defence.
Ronaldo referred the committee to his earlier statement, in which he accepted responsibility for his actions, apologised to his teammates and supporters, and acknowledged that he deserved to be punished.
Portugal coach Jesus has denied reaching any agreement with the forward but has left the door open for his return to the national team.
FPF president Pedro Proença also told Portuguese publication Record that there was a “strong desire” to welcome Ronaldo back once the matter had been resolved.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner has scored 146 goals in 234 appearances for Portugal, holding the world records for international goals and appearances in men’s football. He has also helped his country win Euro 2016 and two UEFA Nations League titles.
Ronaldo joined Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr in December 2022 on a reported annual salary of £177 million and signed a contract extension last year.