Cristiano Ronaldo could face a six-month suspension after leaving the Portugal camp following a dispute with head coach Jorge Jesus, according to reports.
The former Manchester United forward was left frustrated after remaining an unused substitute during Portugal’s 2-1 Nations League win over Norway. Ronaldo had reportedly been expecting to feature after discussions with Jesus, but stayed on the bench throughout the match.
Tensions then grew inside the Portugal camp. Ronaldo did not train with the rest of the squad, although Jesus insisted the forward was having his workload managed rather than refusing to train.
Cristiano Ronaldo announces shock Portugal departure
Reports had suggested the situation was calming after private discussions, but Cristiano Ronaldo announced on Wednesday that he was leaving the national team camp.
“After the National Team coach’s press conference and following a conversation with the President of the Portuguese Football Federation, I have decided to leave the national team training camp,” Ronaldo said.
He added that he would reveal the reasons behind his decision at a later date and wished Portugal and his teammates well.
The Portuguese Football Federation confirmed Ronaldo had left camp, stating that preparations for the upcoming matches would continue with the remaining squad.
The dispute escalated after Jesus suggested Goncalo Ramos could start against Denmark, while making clear that Ronaldo’s status would not guarantee him a place in the team.
“Status doesn’t give players the right to be differentiated from others,” Jesus said.
Ronaldo’s situation has now become one of the major talking points around Portugal, with the reported suspension threat adding another layer to an increasingly tense episode.
