Portugal suspends Cristiano Ronaldo; launches disciplinary proceedings

Lisbon: Cristiano Ronaldo has been provisionally suspended after the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) launched disciplinary proceedings against the 41-year-old forward following his controversial departure from the national team, The Guardian reported.

The move comes after Ronaldo publicly apologised to supporters while criticising Portugal coach Jorge Jesus over a dispute that led to his departure from Copenhagen ahead of the Nations League clash against Denmark. The forward has indicated he will accept any punishment imposed by the federation.

According to Portuguese newspaper A Bola, the FPF confirmed that the proceedings had been classified as urgent and that a further preventive suspension had been imposed on Ronaldo.

Ronaldo claimed Jesus had initially agreed to rest him for Portugal’s matches against Norway and Denmark to manage his fitness. However, the coach subsequently informed him that he would feature for 30 minutes against Norway.

Ronaldo said he warmed up from half-time onwards but was never brought on, accusing Jesus of breaking their agreement.

Portugal won all three matches during the international break despite Ronaldo’s absence or unused-substitute status. His replacement, Gonçalo Ramos, capitalised on the opportunity by scoring three goals.

Ronaldo later addressed his 679 million Instagram followers, urging Jesus to acknowledge his handling of the Norway match, particularly the decision to make him warm up without eventually introducing him. The coach has not admitted any wrongdoing.

The disciplinary action adds another chapter to the growing rift between Portugal’s record-breaking forward and his national team management, with the consequences of the dispute now extending beyond the dressing room.