Ronaldo handed 30-day ban for leaving Portugal camp following coach Jesus rift

Cristiano Ronaldo has been handed a 30-day suspension and a €255 fine from the Portuguese football federation for leaving the national team during a recent international break. The 41-year-old striker found himself in conflict with coach Jorge Jesus after being benched for Portugal's 2-1 win over Norway in late September. Ronaldo claimed Jesus had told him he would only play for around half an hour, leading to his benching.

The forward felt Jesus had not taken him seriously and accused him of breaking an agreement, stating that the coach had promised to explain the situation publicly during a press conference. Ahead of Portugal's match against Denmark, tensions escalated and Ronaldo departed the training camp. Subsequently, he released a detailed public apology to his teammates and supporters, accepting that his actions warranted consequences.

Ronaldo emphasized his status as a role model, calling for a stringent punishment for his departure. The Portuguese federation subsequently initiated formal disciplinary proceedings against the captain, resulting in the 30-day suspension and €255 fine. Given Ronaldo's salary, the fine remains relatively modest.