Cristiano Ronaldo could be facing a significant disciplinary setback after leaving the Portugal national team camp without what the country’s football regulations may regard as sufficient justification.
The veteran forward’s departure from Portugal’s camp in Copenhagen has reportedly placed him at the centre of a potential disciplinary case, with the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) code allowing for a suspension of between one and six months for players who abandon national team duties without justification.
The regulations also provide for a fine of between €500 and €1,000 for professional players.
Ronaldo’s situation reportedly followed a disagreement with Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus after the five-time Ballon d’Or winner was left on the bench during the team’s match against Norway.
Jesus had made clear that Ronaldo’s reputation would not determine his team selection, insisting that he alone would decide when the forward played.
The situation escalated when Ronaldo subsequently failed to take part in Portugal’s training sessions.
The FPF confirmed that Ronaldo did not train with the squad on Wednesday, while João Félix returned to group training and Francisco Conceição was ruled out of the upcoming fixture.
Ronaldo had also missed Portugal’s previous training session in Sweden.
Although Ronaldo later held discussions with FPF president Pedro Proença, his departure could still be referred for disciplinary consideration.
The potential punishment is based on Article 23 of the FPF disciplinary regulations, which provides for a one-to-six-month suspension where a duly called-up player abandons or fails to attend national-team activities without justification.
For now, it remains unclear whether the FPF will formally open disciplinary proceedings against Ronaldo or what explanation the player may provide for leaving camp.
His absence has already resulted in him being left out of Portugal’s squad for Thursday’s match, while the possibility of further sanctions could turn the dispute into a wider issue for the national team.
The case now leaves the FPF with a decision to make over whether Ronaldo’s departure amounted to a disciplinary breach and, if so, whether the circumstances warrant action under its regulations.
