Cristiano Ronaldo could face a suspension of one to six months for leaving Portugal’s national team camp without permission, under the Portuguese Football Federation’s regulations. However, no final decision has been announced.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner reportedly left the camp following a dispute with coach Jorge Jesus. According to a report by British media outlet The Mirror, the federation’s internal rules allow a suspension of between one and six months for such an offence. The federation will determine the duration of any punishment.
The incident has been referred to the disciplinary council, which will review the matter before deciding on possible sanctions.
According to the report, Ronaldo’s departure followed his disappointment at not being included in the starting line-up for Portugal’s second UEFA Nations League match against Norway. Jesus, who previously coached Ronaldo at Saudi club Al Nassr, has also drawn attention over his relationship with the forward.
Ronaldo had earlier raised uncertainty about his future with the national team but did not announce that he would never play for Portugal again.
Meanwhile, the Portuguese captain returned to scoring for Al Nassr in club football. The Riyadh-based side defeated Al Diriyah 3-0 in Saudi Arabia, with Ronaldo scoring to take his career tally to 980 goals.
sks