Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo could face a suspension of up to six months and a financial penalty after leaving the national team’s training camp without permission.
The 41-year-old forward left Portugal’s camp in Copenhagen on Wednesday, September 30, following a disagreement surrounding his involvement in the team. Ronaldo had been an unused substitute during Portugal’s 2–1 Nations League victory over Norway, while head coach Jorge Jesus had indicated that he would not start the team’s next match against Denmark.
Ronaldo later confirmed his departure in a statement on social media, saying he had spoken with Portuguese Football Federation president Pedro Proença before leaving the camp. He did not disclose the specific reasons for his decision, saying he would explain them at a later time.
Under the Portuguese Football Federation’s disciplinary regulations, leaving an international camp without authorisation can result in a suspension of up to six months, alongside a financial penalty. Reports citing the regulations say disciplinary action could therefore be considered in Ronaldo’s case.
The incident has raised questions about Ronaldo’s immediate future with the national team, although neither the player nor the federation has announced that he is retiring from international football. Portugal subsequently faced Denmark in the Nations League without Ronaldo.
