Portugal’s federation opened disciplinary proceedings against Cristiano Ronaldo. He left camp after a dispute with coach Jorge Jesus.
The Portuguese Football Federation has provisionally suspended Cristiano Ronaldo and opened disciplinary proceedings after the 41-year-old left the national team’s camp following a dispute with coach Jorge Jesus, the federation said Saturday.
Ronaldo left the squad’s base in Copenhagen before Portugal’s Nations League match against Denmark. He had been an unused substitute in a 2-1 win over Norway, and he accused Jesus of twice breaking his word about playing him. Ronaldo said Jesus had told him he would play 30 minutes. Jesus denied making any agreement but left the door open for Ronaldo’s return, Reuters reported.
The federation said the case, designated urgent, was referred to its Disciplinary Investigation Commission, and that the findings will stay confidential until it reaches conclusions. Federation president Pedro Proenca said everyone at the federation wants Ronaldo to return once the matter is resolved and that the outcome depends only on the autonomous disciplinary committee. Ronaldo faces a potential ban of up to six months, according to The Associated Press.
Ronaldo published a statement of nearly 2,000 words accusing Jesus of a “breach of trust,” then apologized Tuesday for not acknowledging supporters after the Norway game and for leaving his teammates. He said he would accept any punishment, asked that it not be reduced, and said he remains available for selection afterward. Polls in Portugal show most fans back Jesus, Sky Sports reported.
This report is based on information from ESPN, Reuters, The Associated Press and Sky Sports.