Football Federation President Wants Ronaldo Back in Portugal Squad by November

Football Federation President Wants Ronaldo Back in Portugal Squad by November

Online Desk
Online Desk

Published: 03:51 11 October 2026

Cristiano Ronaldo faces a temporary suspension after leaving the national team camp. However, despite the ongoing disciplinary process, Pedro Proença, the president of the country's football federation, hopes to see the Portugal captain back in the squad this coming November. He also noted the positive stance of the coach and other relevant parties regarding this matter.
The Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) has initiated disciplinary proceedings against Ronaldo for a breach of conduct. However, the duration of the suspension—or the number of matches he might miss—has not yet been finalized; the federation's disciplinary committee is currently reviewing the case.

On Saturday (October 10), Proença spoke to reporters at an event inaugurating FC Porto's new stadium. He stated that everyone is looking forward to the return of the national team captain.
According to him, the disciplinary proceedings against Ronaldo will follow established regulations, and the decision rests with the relevant independent committee. Nevertheless, both the federation and the national team coach hope that the experienced forward will rejoin the squad soon.
A report by the Portuguese media outlet *Diário de Notícias* quoted Proença, highlighting that the collective desire is to bring the national team captain back as quickly as possible, with hopes of seeing him rejoin the squad in November.
How the controversy surrounding Ronaldo began
In a UEFA Nations League match against Norway, the 41-year-old Ronaldo spent the entire game on the bench. Subsequently, Portugal coach Jorge Jesus announced that he would not be included in the starting lineup for the match against Denmark.
Following this decision, Ronaldo left the national team camp. As the issue sparked discussion within the football community, the Portuguese star explained the reasons behind his disagreement with the coach. Ronaldo alleges that Jesus failed to honor two promises regarding his role and match participation with the national team. He expressed particular dissatisfaction with the coach's stance on fielding him against Norway and the subsequent explanation given at the press conference.
On the other hand, Jesus has denied the existence of any such formal agreement with Ronaldo. However, the Portugal coach has not ruled out the possibility of the veteran forward returning to the national team.

Meanwhile, Ronaldo has accepted responsibility for his decision to leave the camp. In addition to expressing regret to his teammates and fans, he has stated his willingness to accept any disciplinary action in accordance with the rules.
Nevertheless, the Portuguese star remains keen to continue playing for the national team; consequently, the possibility of his return in November now hinges on the disciplinary committee's decision.

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