Threat of up to three-month suspension for Cristiano Ronaldo, says EFE

While Portugal celebrates its captain's victory in the Asian Champions League, Cristiano Ronaldo faces the possibility of a suspension of between one and three months after leaving the national team camp before the match against Denmark in the Nations League.

Facts that triggered the sanction

Ronaldo, 41, was a substitute against Denmark and, according to the EFE agency, left the camp on September 30 after disagreements with manager Jorge Jesus. The Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) opened a file on the 10th of that month and suspended him preventively while the Disciplinary Instruction Commission resolves the case.

The process, described by the FFP as of “urgent character,” follows article 160 of the disciplinary regulations, which provides for a suspension of between one and six months and a minimum fine of 510 euros for professional footballers.

Statements and possible reduction

Ronaldo acknowledged his mistake in a statement on October 6, accepting the sanction and noting that his status as captain is an aggravating circumstance. He said: “I am not just any player, I am the team captain and that constitutes an aggravating circumstance. I have already asked for forgiveness, but I know that actions must have consequences.”

The statement itself suggests that the maximum sanction could be reduced from six to three months, which would allow the striker to return in November if the minimum penalty is imposed.

Precedents and reactions

Ronaldo's departure has precedents: in 2011, Ricardo Carvalho left the camp due to disagreements with Paulo Bento and received a one‑year sanction, mitigated by his career. On that occasion, Ronaldo had argued that no place is guaranteed in the national team.

Jorge Jesus, Portugal's coach, said on October 4 that the doors remain open for Ronaldo if he decides to return. FPF president Pedro Proença added on October 10 that the desire for his return is collective and that all parties want to be together in November.

Public image and immediate future

Although the controversy persists, the Federation continues to highlight Ronaldo's achievements, sharing a photo of the captain in the national jersey after his goal with Al Nassr against Neftchi in the Asian Champions League.