The fallout from Cristiano Ronaldo’s departure from Portugal’s national team camp may extend beyond the possibility of him not returning to the squad, as the Portuguese star could face disciplinary sanctions under the regulations of the Portuguese Football Federation.
اضافة اعلان
Ronaldo left the national team camp following a press conference by Jorge Jesus, during which the head coach emphasized his full authority over team selection and technical decisions.
Following the coach’s remarks, Ronaldo left Copenhagen and traveled to Madrid aboard his private jet, a decision that could carry disciplinary consequences, according to Spanish newspaper Marca, citing Portuguese newspaper O Jogo.
Suspension could reach six months
According to the disciplinary regulations of the Portuguese Football Federation, Ronaldo could face a suspension ranging from one to six months, in addition to a financial penalty, if his departure from the national team camp is deemed unjustified.
The regulations state that “any player, after being duly called up, who leaves without justification or fails to attend a training session, match, or any national team activity, or an activity related to representing the Portuguese Football Federation or Portugal, shall be suspended for a period ranging from one to six months. In addition, if the player is a professional, a fine ranging from 5 to 10 accounting units shall be imposed.”
With the value of each accounting unit set at €102, the potential fine would range from approximately €500 to €1,000.
Portuguese federation and Ronaldo issue statements without explanation
The Portuguese Football Federation confirmed on Wednesday evening that Ronaldo had left the national team camp but did not disclose the reasons behind his decision.
The federation said preparations for the team’s matches against Denmark and Norway would continue according to the scheduled program, with the other 24 players in the squad taking part.
“The entire delegation remains fully focused on the national team’s upcoming commitments and achieving the objectives that have been set,” the federation said in a statement.
Ronaldo, meanwhile, addressed the matter through his social media accounts, saying he would reveal the real reasons behind his decision to leave the camp at the appropriate time.
The Portugal captain wrote: “Following the national team coach’s press conference, and after a conversation with the president of the Portuguese Football Federation, I decided to leave the national team camp. At the appropriate time, I will tell all Portuguese people the truth about the reasons that led me to leave the national team to which I have always devoted myself.”
He added: “Now is the time to wish Portugal and all my teammates, without exception, the best of luck.”