Portugal squad for UEFA EURO 2024: Who’s in and who’s out, Key players and Predicted lineup

What can you expect from Portugal in Euro 2024?

The 2016 winners has witnessed the best qualification performance in Portugal’s history, winning every one of those matches. They will surely aim for another trophy in Germany this summer. They will begin their quest for another European crown against Czechia on June 18.

Roberto Martinez, the former manager of the Belgium national football team, is now at the helm. He replaced Fernando Santos soon after Portugal were knocked out in the quarter-finals by Morocco in the 2022 World Cup.

Portugal’s current squad is one of the strongest out of the 24 teams. Due to their superb run in the qualification and the sheer amount of talent at their disposal, Portugal is in a position to reclaim their honour this summer.

The Navigators would be extra motivated to perform for Cristiano Ronaldo, in what is likely to be his last major tournament on the international stage. Let’s take a look at the Portugal squad for UEFA Euro 2024.

Goalkeepers

Diogo Costa is currently Portugal’s top goalkeeper. In the last few years, he has advanced through the ranks at Porto and has been identified as Chelsea’s No.1 target this summer.

However, if he gets injured, Portugal have the legendary Rui Patricio who was a part of the 2016 European Championship-winning campaign.

Defenders

Portugal’s defensive options are among the strongest in this tournament. Premier League starters Rube Dias, Diogo Dalot and Joao Cancelo are nailed-on starters at the back. Raphael Guerreiro’s injury has opened the door for Nelson Semedo. Goncalo Inacio could step up after a strong performance for Sporting CP last season.

Former Real Madrid defender and veteran Pepe has revealed that he will make a decision on his future once the European Championship is over. The 41-year-old is set to play his fifth European Championship of his trophy-laden career.

Also Read: Netherlands Squad EURO 2024: Who’s in and Who’s out, Key Players and Predicted Lineup

Midfielders

Manchester United’s Bruno Fernandes is the undisputed starter in Roberto Martinez’s squad. He is the only player who has featured in Martinez’s first 10 games in charge. Young gun Joao Neves will bring fluidity in the middle of the park. Holding midfielders Danilo Pereira and Joao Palhinha will provide the defensive muscle in the centre of the park.

Octavio missed out on the squad despite being called up in the provisional squad. Manchester City midfielder Matheus Nunes who has struggled for game time with the club has received his first international call-up since the 2022 World Cup.

Forwards

One can easily see that Portugal’s attack is their strongest point this summer. Al-Nassr forward Cristiano Ronaldo has shown no signs of slowing down after registering 50 goals for the Saudi Arabian side in the 2023/24 campaign. Martinez has relied on the 39-year-old as his go-to striker and would continue in Germany too.

Premier League winner Bernardo Silva is the other mainstay of Martinez’s attack who will be deployed on the right wing with Felix on the left. Diogo Jota and Rafael Leao will provide the much-needed depth in the final third.

Predicted Lineup for Portugal in UEFA Euro 2024

Portugal are gearing up for Euro 2024 after having a perfect record in the Euro qualifying campaign. Let’s break down the expected XI.

FC Porto goalkeeper Diogo Costa is expected to stand in between the sticks. The young shot-stopper has been linked with several clubs this summer.

In defence, we expect a four-man setup. Ruben Dias and Goncalo will be key players at the heart of defence. Premier League full-backs Diogo Dalot and Joao Cancelo will be available in the right and left full-back positions respectively.

The midfield will undoubtedly be led by Bruno Fernandes who has been in sensational form for Manchester United despite their disastrous 2023/24 campaign. He can bring control and creativity, while Joao Palhinha and Otavia are sure picks who can contribute both offensively and defensively. Martinez has plenty of options in the middle of the park. We can also see Bernardo Silva drop into the midfield.

The Manchester City star could end up in the right wing with Barcelona star Joao Felix on the left. Cristiano who could start at any three positions up top is expected to lead the line. AC Milan star Rafael Leao and PSG forward Goncalo Ramos will be on rotation throughout the tournament.

Portugal Predicted XI (4-3-3): Costa; Cancelo, Dias, Inacio, Dalot; Palhinha, Otavio, Fernandes; Bernardo Silva, Ronaldo, Felix.

Players missing for Portugal in UEFA Euro 2024

Portugal will miss some crucial players on their travels to Germany for Euro 2024. Let’s look at who won’t be making the trip to Germany.

Bayern Munich defender Raphael Guerreiro suffered an ankle ligament injury and will miss the upcoming European Championships.

Pedro Goncalves who is capable of playing on either wing or midfield, has missed out on the Portugal Euro 2024 squad. The versatile attacker racked up 18 goals and 17 assists in 49 appearances last season. The competition for his position is seemingly high in Roberto Martinez’s squad.

Al Nassr midfielder Otavia was replaced by Manchester City midfielder Matheus Nunes after struggling to recover from an unnamed injury.

Also Read: A tactical preview for Portugal National Football Team playing in EURO 2024