Ronaldo provisionally suspended by Portuguese FA after leaving camp
· Sports · BBC Sport, Reuters
Cristiano Ronaldo has been provisionally suspended by the Portuguese Football Federation for leaving the national team camp in September after being an unused substitute against Norway and learning he would not start against Denmark. The 41-year-old Al-Nassr forward accused Portugal coach Jorge Jesus of twice breaking his word, calling it an absolute breach of trust. The FPF issued the provisional suspension on 9 October and marked the case as urgent, citing rules that prescribe a one to six month ban and a fine for players who walk out on international duties. Ronaldo accepted accountability, apologised to teammates and fans, and confirmed he would not retire from international football as he pursues 1000 career goals. He has scored 146 goals in 234 appearances for Portugal, holding men's world records for both, and helped the team win Euro 2016 and the Nations League twice. Ronaldo returned to action last week, scoring his 980th career goal in a 3-0 win for Al-Nassr over Diriyah Club
Why it matters
The suspension affects Portugal's national team ahead of upcoming Nations League matches, as they may be without their record goalscorer and captain. It also highlights growing tensions between veteran players and coaches over squad roles and communication.
Read the original report — BBC Sport
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