Cristiano Ronaldo’s international career could be nearing its end, according to his sister, Katia Aveiro, who has suggested that a return to Portugal’s national team is now uncertain following a reported dispute involving the forward and coach Jorge Jesus.
Ronaldo, 41, became the centre of controversy during the recent international break after reportedly leaving Portugal’s training camp over what he described as “broken promises” by Jesus. The situation escalated after the forward was left on the bench for Portugal’s 2-1 Nations League victory over Norway, prompting disciplinary action from the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF).
Aveiro addressed the dispute at a book launch in Lisbon, where Jesus was also in attendance. Asked whether her brother was likely to resume his international career, she suggested that retirement from international football was now a more likely outcome than a return.
“It’s more likely a no than a yes,” she said, according to comments reported at the event. “I think both [Cristiano and Jorge Jesus] are hurt; it was a situation they experienced, not me. I’m speaking for my brother.”
She described the situation as one that had reached an impasse, adding that it remained unclear what would happen next.
Asked whether Ronaldo and Jesus could repair their relationship, Aveiro said she could not predict the outcome. She also suggested that rebuilding trust would be difficult after the events surrounding the dispute.
“I don’t know, it’s very complicated. When we’re betrayed, it’s very difficult to go back to normal,” she said.
Aveiro also expressed sadness over the reaction to the controversy in Portugal, arguing that her brother’s past contributions to the country should be taken into account when assessing the situation.
“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,” she said. “I’m speechless; it’s very difficult to see my brother go through this. He is one of the people who least deserve this.”
Her remarks followed criticism from Ronaldo’s mother, Dolores Aveiro, who also questioned how her son had been treated. She said those involved were failing to value him and argued that his departure should have been handled differently.
“He could have left through the front door and instead he left through the back door,” she said.
Despite apologising to his teammates, Ronaldo remains subject to disciplinary proceedings as the Portuguese football authorities investigate his conduct. The case could affect his availability for the next international window in November, although the outcome will depend on the investigation and any resulting disciplinary decision.
In a statement, the FPF said disciplinary proceedings against Ronaldo were initiated following a decision by its Non-Professional Section on October 9, 2026. The proceedings concern events reported on October 7, with the federation seeking to determine whether they warrant further disciplinary action.
The federation also confirmed that Ronaldo had been placed under a non-automatic preventive suspension, in addition to the automatic preventive suspension that applied before the formal proceedings began. The case was referred to the FPF Disciplinary Investigation Committee on October 10 and was designated as urgent.
The FPF said the proceedings would remain confidential until the investigation was concluded.
For now, Aveiro’s comments reflect her own assessment of the situation rather than an announcement from Ronaldo that he intends to retire from international football. His future with Portugal remains uncertain while the disciplinary process continues, and no final decision on his international career has been established in the information provided.
