Berlin [Germany], October 11: Cristiano Ronaldo's hopes of playing again for Portugal were boosted by the federation president Pedro Proenca on Saturday, just hours after the superstar was provisionally suspended from the national team.
Ronaldo sparked the row by leaving the Nations League camp after being an unused substitute in the win over Norway. He said coach Jorge Jesus had broken his word about bringing him on. Now he has been given a possible olive branch.
"The federation, the coach and all team-mates agree - everyone wants Cristiano back. I am already expecting him during the international break in November," Proenca told reporters.
There is still no final decision from the federation's disciplinary committee on any long-term punishment beyond the provisional ban.
Proenca said of the timeline: "That depends solely on the disciplinary committee which, as an autonomous body, will get the job done."
The Al-Nassr striker has played 234 internationals for Portugal, scoring 146 goals - both records in men's international football.
Titleholders Portugal won all four Nations League matches in the recent international window, with Ronaldo featuring just once.
In a statement, Ronaldo indicated that he expected a punishment but would make himself available for Portugal again.
Earlier this year, the 41-year-old speculated that this could be his final season before retirement as he chases 1,000 career goals.
Source: Qatar Tribune