Despite Cristiano Ronaldo’s provisional suspension, Portugal’s FA president, Pedro Proença, struck a conciliatory tone towards the superstar on Saturday. Is a turnaround on the cards?
“The Football Association, the manager and all his team-mates are in agreement: everyone wants Cristiano back,” Proença told journalists at a stadium opening ceremony in Porto on Saturday. “I expect him back during the international break in November.” Defending champions Portugal, who have already qualified for the Nations League quarter-finals after four wins from four matches, will face Denmark (14 November, home) and Wales (17 November, away) to round off the group stage.
After not being selected for the Nations League match in Norway (2–1), Ronaldo caused a stir by leaving the Portuguese national team’s training camp. On Saturday afternoon, the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) announced that it had initiated disciplinary proceedings against the 41-year-old and provisionally suspended him.
A final ruling on the matter has not yet been reached, and the potential severity of any punishment has not yet been determined. “That depends entirely on the disciplinary committee, which will carry out its work as an independent body,” said Proença, who does not wish to interfere. Article 160 of the association’s disciplinary code, which relates to unjustified absence from the national team or leaving the squad, provides for suspensions of between one and six months.
Ronaldo’s future with the national team therefore remains uncertain. Most recently, the player – who has made 234 appearances for his country – publicly accused manager Jorge Jesus of breaking his word. Whether he will be able to add to his tally of 146 goals in the national team shirt remains to be seen. However, following Proença’s comments, the chances of a “CR7” comeback appear to have improved slightly. Ronaldo himself had stated in a statement that he expected to face a penalty. He emphasised, however, that he would be available again if required.