Cristiano Ronaldo: When He Could Play for Portugal Again After Ban

Cristiano Ronaldo could return to Portugal’s national team in November after receiving a 30-day suspension for leaving the squad following a disagreement with head coach Jorge Jesus.

The Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) handed the Al-Nassr forward a 30-day ban and a €255 fine on Monday, October 19, 2026. However, the punishment is not expected to keep the 41-year-old out of Portugal’s next international fixtures because he has already served part of the suspension.

According to reports, Ronaldo could be available for Portugal’s matches against Denmark on November 14 and Wales on November 17.

The suspension followed his departure from Portugal’s training camp in Copenhagen ahead of the team’s Nations League match against Denmark earlier this month.

When will Cristiano Ronaldo return to Portugal?

Ronaldo could return to the national team for Portugal’s November fixtures, provided he receives a call-up from Jesus.

The Portuguese forward has already served part of the suspension under provisional disciplinary measures. Reports indicate that 19 days have been deducted from the 30-day punishment, allowing him to complete the remaining period before Portugal’s next matches.

Portugal will host Denmark on November 14 before travelling to face Wales on November 17.

However, serving the suspension does not automatically guarantee Ronaldo a place in the squad. His return will depend on the team’s selection decisions.

Why was Ronaldo suspended?

The disciplinary action followed Ronaldo’s decision to leave Portugal’s training camp after a disagreement with Jesus over his role in the team.

The dispute escalated after Ronaldo was left on the bench throughout Portugal’s 2-1 victory over Norway. The forward subsequently accused Jesus of breaking his word about his expected involvement in the team.

Ronaldo then left the camp before Portugal’s next match against Denmark.

The FPF disciplinary council ruled that he had committed an offence under Article 160(1) of its disciplinary regulations. It imposed a 30-day suspension and a €255 fine.

Ronaldo later apologised for leaving his teammates and failing to acknowledge supporters after the match against Norway. He also indicated that he remained available to represent Portugal after serving any punishment arising from the incident.

Will Jorge Jesus allow Ronaldo to return?

Jesus has previously indicated that Ronaldo remains welcome in the national team, despite the disagreement.

The coach said the decision to continue playing for Portugal ultimately rested with the forward. He also maintained that Ronaldo remained important to the team, whether he started matches or came off the bench.

Portuguese Football Federation president Pedro Proença has also expressed support for Ronaldo’s return once the matter is resolved.

These statements suggest that the dispute has not automatically ended Ronaldo’s international career. However, his availability after the suspension and his eventual selection are separate matters.

Which matches could Ronaldo play next?

If selected, Ronaldo could feature in Portugal’s next two fixtures:

• Portugal vs Denmark: November 14, 2026.
• Wales vs Portugal: November 17, 2026.

The matches would give Ronaldo an opportunity to return to international action after the disciplinary dispute.

For now, the immediate question is no longer simply how long the suspension lasts. With much of the punishment already served, attention will turn to whether Jesus includes the Portugal captain in his next squad.