Portugal Temporarily Suspends Ronaldo for Withdrawing from National Team

Sports Desk

The Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) has opened disciplinary proceedings against 41-year-old star footballer Cristiano Ronaldo over his departure from the national team. The organization said on Saturday that Ronaldo has been provisionally suspended while an investigation is underway.

Ronaldo apologized to fans earlier this week, but also criticized Portugal coach Jorge Jesus, saying he would accept punishment if given .

“Disciplinary measures have been taken against Cristiano Ronaldo,” the FPF said in a statement. The federation, which has classified the case as “urgent”, confirmed that he will remain temporarily suspended until a final punishment is decided.

He was brought on as a substitute in the match against Norway on September 27, but was ultimately not fielded. Ronaldo then left the national team camp on October 1 after learning that he would not be included in the starting eleven for the match against Denmark. Ronaldo , the all-time leading goalscorer and most appearances in international football, currently plays for Saudi club Al-Nasr.

Ronaldo complained on Tuesday that coach Jesus had not kept his promise to give him playing time in the Nations League matches. However, Ronaldo did not say he was retiring from international football and said he would be available to play again after serving any possible punishment.

Ronaldo said, “I will be ready to compete and win for our national team – as I always have been until today.” However, he admitted to accepting any punishment the federation gives for his behavior.

Portugal have qualified for the quarter-finals of the Nations League with two matches remaining, having won all four matches in the absence of Ronaldo.

Meanwhile, Ronaldo returned to the club scene on Friday after returning from international duty, scoring a goal in Al-Nasr’s 3-0 win over Diriyah in the Saudi Pro League.