Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo has been handed a 30-day suspension and fined €255 (£215) by the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) after leaving the national team’s camp in September.
The 41-year-old forward reportedly withdrew from Portugal’s Nations League squad after being left on the bench during the match against Norway and subsequently learning that he would not start against Denmark on October 1.
Ronaldo later explained his decision in a lengthy statement, accusing Portugal coach Jorge Jesus of breaking his word on two occasions and describing the situation as an “absolute breach of trust”.
However, the suspension will not affect his availability for upcoming international fixtures, as the ban took effect from the day of Portugal’s match against Denmark. Ronaldo has already served 19 days of the suspension.
Portugal are scheduled to face Denmark again in the Nations League on November 14 before travelling to Wales three days later.
In announcing the disciplinary decision, the FPF committee said it had considered Ronaldo’s expression of remorse, his contributions to football and his achievements in the sport.
The committee also disclosed that the forward submitted his curriculum vitae, detailing his awards and career accomplishments, as part of his defence.
Ronaldo had referred the panel to his earlier statement, in which he accepted responsibility for his actions and apologised to his teammates and supporters. He also acknowledged that he deserved to face disciplinary consequences.
Meanwhile, Jesus has denied reaching any agreement with Ronaldo but has indicated that the door remains open for the forward to return to the national team.
FPF president Pedro Proença also expressed optimism about Ronaldo’s future with Portugal, telling Portuguese publication Record that there was a “strong desire” to see him return once the matter had been resolved.
Ronaldo remains one of the most decorated players in international football. He has scored 146 goals in 234 appearances for Portugal, records that stand as men’s international benchmarks.
The Al-Nassr striker helped Portugal win the 2016 European Championship and two UEFA Nations League titles.
