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A fine of 255 euros or $286. Yes, that's the equivalent of Rs. 27,000. It's the amount Cristiano Ronaldo has to pay along with serving a ban of merely 30 days after walking out of the national camp during the UEFA Nations League. This was after coach Jorge Jesus did not play him on October 1 vs Denmark. He was left out of the September 27 clash vs Norway after playing on September 24 in the opener vs Wales.
The 41-year-old was eligible for a ban from one to six months, but the FPF disciplinary committee said it considered 'the remorse shown in the statement' issued by Ronaldo on October 6, where he apologised and said he was ready to be punished.
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In fact, a majority of the ban has already been served. It began on October 1, and Ronaldo has already served 21 out of the 30 days. So, he is eligible to play for Portugal by the end of October. Earlier, there were reports that Ronaldo would not return unless Jesus left. His sister also was skeptical if the legend were back. But both FPF and Jesus said they were open to an international return.
Portugal's next game is in the Nations League vs Denmark in the on November 14. It remains to be seen if Ronaldo turns up in national colours.
The man who led Portugal to their first international title, the Euro 2016, had a sad exit from the FIFA World Cup 2026 when his team lost 1-0 vs Spain in the Round of 16. This was his 6th and last World Cup, but his international future is not clear yet.
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Ronaldo currently has 146 international goals in 234 games. If he scores four more, he will be the first man to score 150. At the moment, CR7 has the most goals and appearances in men's international football. Overall, he is only 19 away from the coveted 1000-career goal mark. Lionel Messi is 2nd with 936 goals.
Shall we ever see Ronaldo play in the Portugal shirt again? Is a dream farewell loading? Is an international comeback on the cards. So many questions, so little time. We will find out in less than a month.