Cristiano Ronaldo, a five-time Ballon d'Or winner, has been provisionally suspended by the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) following his departure from the country's international squad in September.
The 41-year-old captain left Portugal's Nations League camp after being named as an unused substitute in a match against Norway on 4 October, and subsequently learning he would not start in the upcoming fixture against Denmark. In a detailed statement published on Instagram, Ronaldo accused coach Jorge Jesus of twice "breaking his word" and described the situation as an "absolute breach of trust".
The FPF confirmed that a provisional suspension was issued on 9 October and marked the case as "urgent". According to the federation's disciplinary rules, any player who fails to appear or abandons international duties faces a potential ban lasting between one and six months, alongside financial penalties.
What does the disciplinary process involve?
The FPF referred the case to its Disciplinary Investigation Committee on 10 October, according to reporting on the investigation. The investigation remains confidential until its conclusion. FPF president Pedro Proenc told Portuguese media outlet Record that the federation is approaching the matter with "calm and composure" and that officials are "all sitting down together at the table". He added:
"There is a strong desire to have our captain back with us. There will be a normal disciplinary process."
What has Ronaldo said about his actions?
Ronaldo has accepted responsibility for his conduct and apologised to his team-mates and supporters. In his lengthy Instagram statement, he made clear that he believes he should face punishment without any mitigating circumstances being considered. According to reports of his statement, Ronaldo said he would remain available for Portugal after serving any suspension imposed by the federation.
Ronaldo also dismissed speculation that he intends to retire from international football.
"We will have one or more farewell matches, there will be time for that,"he stated in his post. The forward confirmed he continues to pursue his goal of reaching 1,000 career goals, a milestone that remains within reach given his current tally.
Why did the conflict with Jesus arise?
The dispute between Ronaldo and Jesus stems from disagreements over team selection and the coach's handling of the player's involvement in the Nations League fixtures. According to Ronaldo's account, Jesus had initially proposed that he start Portugal's opening and final home matches of the international window. Ronaldo rejected this arrangement because it would have excluded him from the away games, leading to the breakdown in their relationship.
The tension reflects broader questions about Ronaldo's role in the squad at 41 years old. Manager Jesus has stated that the door remains open for Ronaldo to return if he wishes, though he has not publicly responded to the player's latest statement accusing him of dishonesty.
What is Ronaldo's international record?
Ronaldo has scored 146 goals in 234 appearances for Portugal—both men's world records. He was instrumental in Portugal's victory at Euro 2016 and has won the Nations League twice with the national team. He considered stepping away from international football following the World Cup in summer but chose to continue his career.
Since the walkout, Ronaldo has returned to club action with Al-Nassr, scoring his 980th career goal in a 3-0 victory over Diriyah Club last week.
What happens next?
Portugal's next fixtures are scheduled for November against Denmark and Wales, and these matches represent the earliest opportunity for Ronaldo to be available for selection following any suspension handed down by the FPF. The federation's disciplinary process will determine both the length of any ban and the financial consequences Ronaldo faces.
Portuguese football journalist Delgado told a national broadcaster that reconciliation may prove difficult. He noted that public opinion in Portugal has been divided, with only 15 percent of the population supporting Ronaldo's position. Delgado argued that while Ronaldo's contributions to Portuguese football are "unique and incredible", his age means his time at the highest level may have passed.
"Things will never be the same again. No matter what happens, no matter if he plays again or if you have a game to say goodbye to Ronaldo things will never be the same."
Key Facts
- Ronaldo was provisionally suspended on 9 October after leaving Portugal's Nations League squad in September
- The FPF's disciplinary rules permit bans of one to six months plus fines for players who abandon international duties
- Ronaldo has accepted responsibility and stated he should be punished without mitigation
- He has scored 146 goals in 234 Portugal appearances, both men's world records
- Portugal's next matches in November against Denmark and Wales are the first fixtures where Ronaldo could potentially be available
