Portugal Announces Squad for UEFA Nations League Matches with New Faces
Portugal's Squad Announcement for UEFA Nations League
On November 6, Portugal's head coach Jorge Jesus revealed a 28-player roster for the upcoming UEFA Nations League matches, which includes first-time senior call-ups for right-back Alberto Costa and striker Gustavo Varela.
As reported by a sports news outlet, Portugal is set to face Denmark in Braga on November 14, followed by a match against Wales in Cardiff on November 17.
Having already qualified for the quarter-finals alongside Spain, Portugal aims to secure the top position in Group A4 during these final matches.
This squad announcement marks a significant moment as it follows the international retirement of iconic captain Cristiano Ronaldo, making it the first selection since his exit from the national team.
Os convocados para os próximos desafios da Liga das Nações 2026/27
#NationsLeague https://t.co/ANBq1844PQ
— Portugal (@selecaoportugal) November 6, 2026
Alberto Costa from FC Porto and Gustavo Varela from Monza are the standout newcomers in the squad. Varela has been in remarkable form, currently leading the Serie A scoring charts with nine goals.
Unfortunately, Portugal will miss Francisco Conceicao due to suspension after receiving a red card against Norway, and Nuno Mendes is sidelined with an injury.
Despite being suspended for the opening match against Denmark, defender Joao Cancelo has been included and will be available for the subsequent game against Wales.
The squad also sees the return of Antonio Silva, Mateus Fernandes, and Carlos Forbs, along with young talents Rodrigo Mora and Geovany Quenda.
Jesus commented on the changes, stating, "Compared to the last squad selection, there are seven new players. 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 team. Following Cristiano's [Ronaldo's] sentiments, we want to focus on the renewal and future of the national team."
Portugal squad:
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.