Pedro Proenca: Cristiano Ronaldo Still Key to Portugal Amid Suspension
Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo remains a central figure for the national team despite his provisional suspension after leaving the latest camp, FPF president Pedro Proenca has said.
Ronaldo, 41, walked out during the recent international break following a dispute with head coach Jorge Jesus over limited playing time. The federation has opened a disciplinary process, but has yet to confirm any final sanction.
Proenca underlined Ronaldo’s status at an FPF event in Funchal, the forward’s birthplace, calling him Portuguese football’s greatest asset and insisting the captain remains one of the side’s key players.
Ronaldo accepts disciplinary decision
The Al-Nassr forward has said he will accept the punishment eventually imposed by the FPF. He has also maintained that he wants to keep playing for Portugal whenever he is available.
The dispute reunites Ronaldo and Jesus after their work together in Saudi Arabia. Jesus coached the striker at Al-Nassr last season, when the club won the Saudi Pro League title, before taking charge of Portugal.
- Ronaldo left Portugal’s camp after the disagreement over his role.
- The FPF placed the captain under a provisional suspension while reviewing the incident.
- Ronaldo confirmed he will respect the federation’s final ruling.
- Portugal’s leadership must now seek a resolution between the player and Jesus.
What happens next
Portugal return to UEFA Nations League action in November, with fixtures against Denmark and Wales scheduled next month. Jesus’ next squad announcement will show whether Ronaldo is cleared to return and whether the captain’s relationship with his manager can be repaired.
