Cristiano Ronaldo has been provisionally suspended after the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) initiated urgent disciplinary proceedings over his departure from the national team camp.
The 41-year-old reportedly left the squad in Copenhagen ahead of Portugal’s Nations League match against Denmark following a dispute with coach Jorge Jesus over his playing time.
Dispute With Coach, Apology To Fans
Ronaldo was an unused substitute against Norway on September 27 and later learned he would not start against Denmark on October 1.
He accused Jesus of breaking promises about giving him game time but clarified that he was not retiring from international football.
On Tuesday, Ronaldo apologised for failing to acknowledge supporters after the Norway match and for leaving his teammates.
He accepted that his actions should be punished and said he would remain available for Portugal after serving any sanction.
The FPF confirmed the proceedings had been given urgent status, with Ronaldo’s provisional suspension in place pending a final decision.
Ronaldo Returns To Club Football
Portugal won all four of their Nations League matches and secured qualification for the quarter-finals with two games remaining.
Ronaldo, the country’s all-time leading scorer and record appearance-maker, returned to club duty with Saudi Arabian side Al-Nassr on Friday, scoring in a 3-0 victory over Diriyah in the Saudi Pro League.
The former Real Madrid and Manchester United forward has said he remains committed to representing Portugal.
