Portuguese Football Federation denies Cristiano Ronaldo retirement and six-month ban

The Portuguese Football Federation has rejected reports that Cristiano Ronaldo is preparing to retire from international football or faces a six-month suspension after leaving the national team’s latest training camp.

Uncertainty over the Portugal captain’s future followed a serious breakdown in relations between Ronaldo, the federation and head coach Jorge Jesus. Ronaldo ultimately left the camp and declined to remain with the squad, prompting speculation that he could end his international career and face a lengthy disciplinary punishment.

However, Ricardo Quaresma, a spokesperson for the Portuguese Football Federation, told Saudi newspaper Al-Maidan that claims Ronaldo had decided to retire were entirely false.

“Cristiano Ronaldo has not informed us of any intention to retire from football,” Quaresma said. “What has been reported on this matter is not true, and he can join the team normally at any time.”

Quaresma also dismissed reports that Ronaldo would be prohibited from representing Portugal for six months because of his departure from the camp.

“If he is called up by Jorge Jesus, he will have the right to join the national team squad normally in the coming period,” he said.

The federation’s statement removes the prospect of an immediate suspension and leaves the next step with Jesus and Ronaldo as they seek to resolve the dispute before Portugal’s upcoming commitments.

The latest reports had emerged after Ronaldo’s departure intensified concerns over his international future. The federation has now made clear that it has not been notified of any retirement decision and that the forward remains eligible for selection.