Cristiano Ronaldo is expected to return to the Portugal national team for the November international break, with Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) president Pedro Proença describing the dispute involving the veteran forward and coach Jorge Jesus as a misunderstanding that can be resolved.
The 41-year-old Al-Nassr star has been at the centre of a major controversy after leaving Portugal’s training camp in Copenhagen in late September. However, Proença has indicated that the federation, coaching staff and players all want their captain back, raising hopes of reconciliation ahead of Portugal’s next Nations League fixtures.
The expected return comes despite the FPF imposing a provisional suspension and opening disciplinary proceedings against Ronaldo on October 9.
Ronaldo’s Fallout With Jorge Jesus
The dispute emerged after Ronaldo was left on the bench during a Nations League victory over Norway and learned that he would not start against Denmark.
In a lengthy Instagram statement, Ronaldo accused coach Jorge Jesus of breaking promises concerning his role in the team on two occasions. He described the situation as an “absolute breach of trust” before leaving the national team camp.
The incident raised questions about Ronaldo’s future with Portugal, particularly given his status as the country’s captain and one of the most influential players in international football.
Ronaldo later apologised to his teammates and supporters, accepted responsibility for his actions and acknowledged that disciplinary consequences could follow.
However, he also made clear that he was not retiring from international football, leaving the door open for a possible return.
Pedro Proença Expects Ronaldo Back in November
Speaking on October 10, FPF president Pedro Proença adopted a conciliatory tone, indicating that the federation wants to resolve the situation and reunite Ronaldo with the national team.
“The Federation, the coach, all the teammates are aligned: we want Cristiano back. I expect him back already during the November international break,” Proença said.
He added: “Cristiano is also willing to return. He’s the best of all time.”
Proença’s comments suggest that the dispute has not destroyed the relationship between Ronaldo and the national team. According to the federation president, the coach, captain and players share the desire to see the forward return in November.
Nevertheless, Proença stressed that the independent disciplinary process must continue, meaning Ronaldo’s return remains subject to the outcome of the proceedings.
Disciplinary Proceedings Could Affect Ronaldo’s Return
The FPF announced a provisional suspension and disciplinary proceedings against Ronaldo on October 9 following his departure from the national team camp.
Under the federation rules cited in the supplied report, abandoning international duty can result in a suspension ranging from one to six months, in addition to a possible fine.
The provisional suspension introduces uncertainty over whether Ronaldo will be available for Portugal’s November fixtures.
Although Proença has expressed confidence that the forward will return, the final disciplinary decision will be an important factor in determining the timing of his comeback.
The federation now faces the challenge of balancing its disciplinary procedures with its desire to restore unity within the national team.
Jorge Jesus Leaves the Door Open
Portugal coach Jorge Jesus has also indicated that Ronaldo remains welcome in the squad.
Jesus, who previously coached Ronaldo at Al-Nassr, has reportedly made clear that the forward can return if he chooses. He has also emphasised that Ronaldo’s contribution is valued whether he starts matches or supports the team from the bench.
That position could prove important in resolving the disagreement, which centred partly on Ronaldo’s expected role and the communication surrounding selection decisions.
A successful reconciliation would allow Portugal to move forward with its captain while reinforcing the importance of collective responsibility within the squad.
Portugal’s November Fixtures
Portugal are scheduled to face Denmark at home on November 14 before travelling to play Wales on November 17 in the Nations League.
The defending Nations League champions have already secured a place in the quarter-finals after recording four consecutive victories, demonstrating their strength despite the uncertainty surrounding Ronaldo.
His potential return would nevertheless provide a major boost in experience and leadership as Portugal prepares for the next stage of the competition.
The November international break could therefore become a decisive moment for both Ronaldo and the national team, depending on the outcome of the disciplinary proceedings.
Ronaldo Continues His Pursuit of 1,000 Career Goals
Despite the controversy, Ronaldo has continued his club career with Al-Nassr and remains focused on reaching the remarkable milestone of 1,000 career goals.
According to the supplied report, he scored his 980th career goal for the Saudi Arabian club following the incident.
Ronaldo also holds the men’s international records for goals, with 146, and appearances, with 234, under the figures provided in the report.
Although he had considered retiring after the 2026 World Cup, Proença suggested that his continued willingness to represent Portugal reflects his deep attachment to the national team.
Reconciliation Remains the Priority
Proença’s latest comments provide a positive signal that Portugal hopes to move beyond the disagreement and welcome Ronaldo back into the squad.
However, the provisional suspension and disciplinary proceedings mean that his November return is expected rather than officially confirmed.
For now, the federation appears committed to finding a resolution that allows Ronaldo to continue representing his country while ensuring that the disciplinary process runs its course.
Esther Afriyie Kumah is the Digital Media & Operations Manager and a writer at AL Media Sports of AL Media Group. She specializes in sports journalism, covering Premier League, Champions League, La Liga, and African football with in-depth match reports, tactical analysis, player ratings, and expert insights.