Portugal captain, Cristiano Ronaldo has been provisionally suspended by the Portuguese Football Federation following his departure from the national team’s camp in September.
The 41-year-old Al-Nassr forward reportedly left the squad after being an unused substitute against Norway and subsequently learning he would not start against Denmark.
Ronaldo later accused the Portugal coach, Jorge Jesus of breaking his word on two occasions, describing the situation as an absolute breach of trust.
He subsequently issued a lengthy statement explaining his decision and apologised to his team-mates and fans, while acknowledging that he deserved to be punished.
In a statement, the Portuguese Football Federation confirmed that the provisional suspension was issued on October 9, adding that the case was being treated as urgent.
The federation’s disciplinary regulations provide for a suspension of between one and six months, alongside a fine, for players who fail to report for or abandon international duty.
However, President of the Portuguese Football Federation, Pedro Proença, has called for calm, expressing hope that Ronaldo will return to the national team.
Proença said there was a strong desire to have the captain back, adding that the matter would be handled through the normal disciplinary process.
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Ronaldo has also dismissed suggestions that he intends to retire from international football, insisting he still wants to represent Portugal as he continues his pursuit of 1,000 career goals.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner has scored 146 goals in 234 appearances for Portugal, making him the leading scorer in men’s international football. He has also helped the country win the 2016 European Championship and the UEFA Nations League twice.
Ronaldo returned to club action last week, scoring his 980th career goal in Al-Nassr’s 3–0 victory over Diriyah Club.
Despite the disciplinary case, the Portuguese Football Federation has indicated its willingness to work towards the captain’s return, with the outcome of the process expected to determine the next step in the long-running saga.
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(Editor: Terverr Tyav)
