The Portuguese Football Federation has suspended Cristiano Ronaldo and opened disciplinary proceedings after the 41-year-old striker walked out of the national team camp during the recent international break. The federation announced on Saturday that the case has been referred to its disciplinary investigation committee, with findings to remain confidential until the conclusion of the inquiry.

Ronaldo’s departure came amid a dispute with Portugal’s new coach, Jorge Jesus, over his limited playing time in the UEFA Nations League. The striker featured only in Portugal’s opening group match, a 1-0 victory over Wales, where he was substituted by Gonçalo Ramos, who then scored three goals in the following matches. Ronaldo did not play in the next two games—against Norway and Denmark—both of which Portugal won, securing their place in the quarterfinals. Following the Norway match, Ronaldo left the squad altogether.

In a lengthy message to his 679 million Instagram followers, Ronaldo expressed frustration with the coaching decisions, particularly being asked to warm up but ultimately not being fielded in Oslo. He suggested the coach should admit a mistake but noted that Jorge Jesus did not acknowledge any error. Ronaldo also acknowledged the possibility of disciplinary action but reassured fans that he expects to have one or more farewell appearances for Portugal before retiring from international football.

Under the federation’s disciplinary regulations, players who abandon or fail to appear without justification at national team activities can face suspensions ranging from one to six months and may be fined. While Ronaldo reportedly informed the federation of his intention to leave, it remains unclear whether this will be deemed a justified withdrawal under these rules.

In his public statement, Ronaldo apologized for his actions and accepted that they could carry consequences. “Anyone in football as I am knows that, regardless of each person’s status, the rules are the same for everyone,” he wrote.

Following the contentious international break, Ronaldo returned to club action with Saudi Arabian side Al-Nassr, scoring the opening goal in a 3-0 victory over Diriyah in the Saudi Pro League. The win lifted Al-Nassr to second place in the league standings, level on points with leaders Al-Qadsiah. Ronaldo, whose international tally stands at 146 goals in 234 appearances for Portugal, continues to compete at the highest level despite the ongoing controversy surrounding his status with the national team.