The Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) has suspended Cristiano Ronaldo for 30 days after leaving the national team camp during the recent international window.
Ronaldo left the squad early amid a dispute with Jorge Jesus stemming from the coach’s decision not to bring him as a substitute in Portugal‘s UEFA Nations League win in Norway.
The former Manchester United and Real Madrid star subsequently released a lengthy statement detailing the reasons behind his actions.
Ronaldo, who accused Jesus of breaking his word, apologised for leaving his team-mates and for failing to walk over to the travelling fans following the game against Norway. The 41-year-old added that he remained available for selection for the national team, dispelling talk of retirement, and said he would accept any punishment for his decision.
The FPF disciplinary council’s non-professional section found Ronaldo to have intentionally committed an offence in breach of Article 160(1) of the federation’s disciplinary regulations.
Proceedings against Ronaldo were opened on October 9 and on Monday the disciplinary council said it had upheld the original charge.
The ruling did not state the matches or activities the suspension would cover. It also did not specify if time served under a provisional suspension would count towards the 30-day ban.
Ronaldo was also fined €255 (£215), but reports in the Portuguese media have claimed he will be available for selection during the November international break.
Portugal beat Denmark and won a return meeting with Norway in Porto in Ronaldo’s self-imposed absence.
Having already clinched qualification for the Nations League quarter-finals, Portugal host Denmark on November 14 before rounding off their group stage campaign with a trip to Wales three days later.