Portugal Reveals Squad for Upcoming UEFA Nations League Matches
Portugal Squad Announcement for Nations League
Jorge Jesus, the head coach of Portugal, has unveiled a 28-player roster for the final two matches in Group A4 of the UEFA Nations League. Notably, right-back Alberto Costa and striker Gustavo Varela have received their first senior team call-ups. Portugal is set to face Denmark in Braga on November 14, followed by a match against Wales in Cardiff on November 17. Having already secured a spot in the quarter-finals alongside Spain, Portugal aims to top Group A4 in these upcoming games. This squad announcement marks the first since the retirement of legendary captain Cristiano Ronaldo from international football.
New Talents and Team Overhaul
The selection features two significant newcomers: FC Porto's Alberto Costa and Monza's Gustavo Varela, who has been in stellar form in Serie A, leading the scoring charts with nine goals. However, Portugal will miss Francisco Conceicao due to suspension following a red card against Norway, and Nuno Mendes is sidelined with an injury. Joao Cancelo remains in the squad despite his suspension for the Denmark match, making him available for the subsequent game against Wales. The roster also sees the return of Antonio Silva, Mateus Fernandes, and Carlos Forbs, alongside young talents Rodrigo Mora and Geovany Quenda.
Focusing on the Future
"This squad features seven new players compared to the last selection," Jesus stated regarding the changes. "We aim to recognize the performances they have shown at their clubs, which we believe merit a call-up to the senior national team. Five of these players were previously part of the under-21 squad. Following Cristiano Ronaldo's sentiments, we want to emphasize the renewal and future of the national team," the Portugal head coach added.
Portugal Squad Composition
The complete Portugal squad is as follows:
- Goalkeepers: Diogo Costa, Rui Silva, Samuel Soares.
- Defenders: Joao Cancelo, Diogo Dalot, Alberto Costa, Ruben Dias, Renato Veiga, Tomas Araujo, Antonio Silva, Goncalo Inacio, Nuno Tavares.
- Midfielders: Ruben Neves, Joao Palhinha, Mateus Fernandes, Joao Neves, Vitinha, Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva.
- Forwards: Pedro Neto, Francisco Trincao, Rafael Leao, Geovany Quenda, Carlos Forbs, Joao Felix, Goncalo Ramos, Fabio Silva, Gustavo Varela.