Portuguese Football Federation president Pedro Proença stated that all parties want Cristiano Ronaldo to return to the national team for November fixtures, while referring any potential sanctions to the disciplinary council.
Pedro Proença Outlines National Team Return Plan
Speaking on the sidelines of the inauguration of the second phase of the Porto Football Association Training Center, Pedro Proença confirmed that the federation, manager Jorge Jesus, team captain Cristiano Ronaldo, and the rest of the squad share a mutual desire to reunite when international play resumes in November. “Everyone, without exception, we want to be together again in November,” Proença declared to reporters.
The FPF president emphasized that the federation is actively working toward securing the 41-year-old forward’s comeback. Proença noted that the current climate requires tranquility and serenity as officials work to bridge recent gaps. “We are all sitting at the table. There is a great desire to have our captain back,” he said, adding that the federation is operating with a collective purpose to restore harmony within the squad.
Disciplinary Council Handles Pending Sanctions
When questioned about potential fines or official reprimands stemming from Ronaldo’s departure from the training camp on September 30, Proença deferred authority entirely to the governing body’s autonomous body. “That will depend only on the Disciplinary Council, which is an autonomous body and will do its work,” Proença explained, maintaining that the federation’s immediate focus remains on preparing the 25-player roster for upcoming fixtures, provided sporting conditions are met.
The disciplinary proceedings were opened following notification regarding Ronaldo’s abrupt exit ahead of UEFA Nations League matches against Denmark and Norway. Proença characterized the breakdown as a simple misunderstanding, asserting that the player and coaching staff share broader common goals—chiefly, defending Portugal’s Nations League crown.
Upcoming Nations League Schedule and Standings
Portugal currently sits atop Group A4 in the UEFA Nations League following a run of four victories from four matches under Jorge Jesus. The squad requires just a single point from its remaining fixtures to guarantee first place in the group and secure advancement to the tournament quarterfinals.
The national team’s next test arrives in mid-November, with fixtures scheduled against Denmark on 14 at home, followed by a trip to face Wales on 17. Proença indicated he expects a full complement of 25 players available for selection as the squad pursues its continental objectives.
Background on the September Training Camp Departure
The friction originated during the September international window when Ronaldo was named an unused substitute during Portugal’s 2-1 victory over Norway in Oslo on September 27. After warming up on the touchline without entering the match, the veteran forward walked straight off the pitch, bypassing the traditional post-match acknowledgment of traveling supporters.
Three days later, on September 30, Ronaldo left the national team training camp entirely. He subsequently cited a loss of confidence in manager Jorge Jesus as the catalyst for his exit. The forward has since apologized and publicly signaled his readiness to return to the squad, describing the national team setup as a place where he feels happy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What triggered Cristiano Ronaldo’s departure from the national team?
Ronaldo left the Portuguese training camp on September 30 following a breach of trust with manager Jorge Jesus. The tension followed a match against Norway in Oslo on September 27, where the forward was left as an unused substitute.
When could Cristiano Ronaldo play for Portugal again?
Federation president Pedro Proença stated an intention to have Ronaldo back in the squad for November matches. Portugal faces Denmark at home on 14 and travels to play Wales on 17.
Who decides whether Ronaldo faces a suspension or fine?
Any formal punishment is entirely up to the Disciplinary Council, which operates as an autonomous body within the Portuguese Football Federation. FPF leadership has deferred all disciplinary decisions to that committee.
What is Portugal’s current status in the UEFA Nations League?
Portugal has secured four wins from four matches in Group A4. The team needs only one point from its final two games to secure first place and advance to the quarterfinals.
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