Ronaldo suspended for 30 days and fined £215 after national team walkout

Cristiano Ronaldo has received a 30-day suspension and a £215 fine following his abrupt departure from the Portugal national team. This action comes after a heated dispute with head coach Jorge Jesus. The Portuguese FA's disciplinary council has not clarified the start date of the ban, but it is believed to be effective from the moment Ronaldo left the training camp in Denmark on September 30.

The fallout between Ronaldo and Jesus escalated after the player was left on the bench during a 2-1 victory against Norway. Ronaldo alleges that he was promised playing time and had warmed up, only for Jesus to change his mind. Despite this incident, Portugal has continued to perform well in the Nations League, winning both matches in Ronaldo's absence.

Ronaldo has publicly expressed his desire for punishment, stating he wanted no leniency from the Portuguese FA. He acknowledged his actions and accepted the consequences outlined in a detailed 28-page document from the disciplinary council, which deemed the punishment adequate for his serious infraction. Ronaldo's statement also indicated his hope that his international career is not yet finished.

Despite the suspension, Ronaldo remains eligible for selection for Portugal's upcoming Nations League matches against Denmark and Wales next month. Jesus has indicated that the door remains open for Ronaldo's return, but the final decision will rest with the head coach. Ronaldo continues to hold the record as Portugal's all-time leading goalscorer and appearance holder, with 146 goals in 234 caps.

via Sky Sports