Cristiano Ronaldo has been suspended from the Portugal national team for 30 days and fined by the Portuguese Football Federation. This action comes after the player departed the team's camp before a Nations League game against Denmark.
The federation's disciplinary body found Ronaldo deliberately violated its rules. The process started in early October, resulting in the penalties. Ronaldo, who is based in Saudi Arabia, acknowledged his mistake.
In a statement, the experienced player said sorry to his colleagues and fans. He said he left because the national team manager did not keep promises, which he called a major betrayal of trust. Ronaldo added that he accepted the punishment and would be ready to play after the ban.
The head of Portugal's football federation, Pedro Proença, highlighted Ronaldo's value to the team. Proença mentioned a clear wish to see Ronaldo return to the national side after this situation. He had earlier called the captain very important for Portugal and believed the problem would be fixed.
The details of what the suspension includes are not provided, including if any prior provisional ban time is deducted. Ronaldo did not play in a match against Norway before the event, which led to a dispute with the coach about his role. The coach has said no specific deal was made with Ronaldo but suggested a comeback could happen later.
Ronaldo's achievements for his country are historic, as he holds the global men's records for national team goals and caps. He played a major part in Portugal winning the European Championship and the Nations League on multiple occasions, and he has received the Ballon d'Or award five times.
Even with this ban, Ronaldo is expected to be available for Portugal's next Nations League games in November. The federation's ruling ends this disciplinary case but leaves the possibility open for the star's return to the team. The suspension is thought to have started when the disciplinary process began.
Read the full report at bbc.co.uk
