Cristiano Ronaldo's sister has suggested that his return to the Portugal squad would be 'very difficult' following his dramatic walkout during the international break. The veteran forward left the national team camp after a row with boss Jorge Jesus over his playing time.
Apology and suspension
Ronaldo has since apologised with a lengthy statement, but he still looks set to be suspended for his actions. His sister, Elma Aveiro, has now spoken out and indicated that the striker's international career could be over.
Speaking at a book launch event, she said: "It's more likely a no than a yes. I think both [Cristiano and Jorge Jesus] are hurt; it was a situation they experienced, not me, I'm speaking for my brother. I think it's a situation that's stalled, we'll see what happens."
Family and teammate reactions
Asked if Ronaldo and Jesus could reconcile their differences, she replied: "I don't know, it's very complicated. When we're betrayed, it's very difficult to go back to normal." She added: "My feeling is one of sadness because the Portuguese people unfortunately forget what has already been done and think that things should be done differently now. I'm speechless, it's very difficult to see my brother go through this. He is one of the people who least deserve this."
Ronaldo's Portugal colleague Vitinha also gave his thoughts, saying: "It was a chaotic international break. Full of emotions. On my end, I just hope everything resolves for the best. That he returns and everything turns out fine. The truth is that's what all of us want. I hope he comes back and everything gets resolved."
Disciplinary proceedings
A statement from the Portuguese FA read: "Disciplinary proceedings were initiated against Cristiano Ronaldo pursuant to a decision by the Non-Professional Section dated October 9, 2026, aimed at determining whether the events reported on October 7, 2026, warrant disciplinary action. Without prejudice to the automatic preventive suspension to which he was subject prior to the initiation of proceedings, a non-automatic preventive suspension of the player was ordered, and the case was designated as urgent. The case was referred to the FPF Disciplinary Investigation Committee on October 10, 2026, with the proceedings remaining confidential until the conclusion of the investigation."
