World Cup 2022 – Squad Preview: Portugal

Fernando Santos' Portugal side are aiming to live up to the high expectations demanded of them at this World Cup.

The problem faced by the coach is trying to blend a collection of talented individuals into a cohesive unit. Given the star power possessed by some, it is easier said than done.   

The goalkeeping position is somewhat of a head scratcher. Rui Patricio of Roma is probably the most experienced of the trio but has been prone to errors. Diego Costa of Porto has made a name for himself over the past two years and could stake a claim here. Jose Sa has yet to make his debut.  

There was plenty of options to choose from in defence. Ruben Dias of Manchester City is likely to partner the veteran Pepe. Jose Fonte misses out as does Tiago Djalo, David Carmo and Ferro.

Manchester rivals Jose Cancelo and Diego Dalot will compete for the right back spot but Cancelo could also switch flanks. Nuno Mendes of PSG and Raphael Guerreiro of Borussia Dortmund equally adapt in that position. 

In midfield, they are equally well stacked. The preferred trio will probably be Manchester pairing of Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva and Ruben Neves of Wolves. Matheus Nunes and Vitinha at PSG represent young talent coming through who might feature, while the experienced William Carvalho could be used to add a degree of solidity.

Joao Moutinho was overlooked on this occasion due to the desire to bring a younger squad. Renato Sanches was left out due to indifferent club form this season. 

Up front all the attention will be focused on Cristiano Ronaldo. The male record goal scorer has not been in strong form with Manchester United and recent interviews have not helped either. The narrative about whether the side would benefit without him has grown but it would still be a surprise if he does not start in Qatar.

The likes of Joao Felix of Atletico Madrid and Rafael Leao of AC Milan are expected to assist him in the front line. Diego Jota and Pedro Neto are both missing through injury. Goncalo Guedes did not make the cut because of a lack of playing time. 

Goalkeepers: Diogo Costa (Porto), Rui Patrício (Roma), Jose Sa (Wolves)

Defenders: Joao Cancelo (Man City), Diogo Dalot (Man Utd), Nuno Mendes (PSG), Ruben Dias (Man City), Antonio Silva (Benfica), Pepe (Porto), Raphael Guerreiro (Borussia Dortmund), Danilo Pereira (PSG)

Midfielders: Joao Palhinha (Fulham), Matheus Nunes (Wolves), William Carvalho (Real Betis), Ruben Neves (Wolves), Bruno Fernandes (Man Utd), Joao Mario (Benfica), Bernardo Silva (Man City), Vitinha (PSG), Otavio (Porto)

Forwards: Joao Felix (Atletico Madrid), Cristiano Ronaldo (Man Utd), Goncalo Ramos (Benfica), Rafael Leao (Milan), Ricardo Horta Braga), Andre Silva (RB Leipzig)

World Cup 2022 – Squad Preview: France https://t.co/tDQBHAOfWrpic.twitter.com/dceDowQoHN

— Extratime.com (@ExtratimeNews) November 17, 2022