Here’s everything you need to know about the Portugal squad that will represent the nation at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Portugal are expected to be one of the standout teams at the 2026 World Cup, having established themselves among Europe’s elite. Under the leadership of Cristiano Ronaldo, they clinched their second Nations League title in 2025 and now look set to challenge for the world’s biggest prize.

The World Cup trophy remains the only major title missing from Portugal’s cabinet, and this edition will likely be Ronaldo’s final opportunity to bring it home for his country.

Alongside their experienced captain, Portugal boast a strong and balanced squad packed with talent across all positions. The team features several Premier League stars, including FWA Footballer of the Year Bruno Fernandes, whose stellar 2025-26 season helped guide Manchester United back to the UEFA Champions League.

So, how does the Portugal squad shape up ahead of the 2026 World Cup? Here’s a detailed look at the players selected by Roberto Martinez.

Goalkeepers

Portugal’s goalkeeping unit looks solid, with Porto’s Diogo Costa expected to start between the posts. Costa played a pivotal role in the 2025 Nations League triumph, producing vital saves and showing great composure and distribution skills that make him a dependable figure in goal.

Jose Sa, despite Wolves’ relegation from the Premier League this season, remains a strong backup option. His experience and consistency make him a valuable member of the squad, ready to step in if needed.

Ricardo Velho and Rui Silva are also included in the preliminary list, though one of them may be omitted when the final squad is confirmed.

Defenders

Portugal’s defensive setup features a strong mix of youth and experience. The central pairing of Ruben Dias and Goncalo Inacio has proven reliable under Roberto Martinez. On the flanks, PSG’s Nuno Mendes continues to shine and is widely regarded as one of the best left-backs in world football.

On the right side, Diogo Dalot, Nelson Semedo, and Joao Cancelo are all competing for a starting place, each having featured regularly for their clubs during the 2025-26 season. Additionally, Manchester City’s Matheus Nunes has shown versatility by adapting well to the right-back role under Pep Guardiola in the Premier League.

Midfielders

In midfield, Joao Neves and Vitinha have been exceptional for PSG in Ligue 1, playing key roles in their club’s back-to-back Champions League successes. Their chemistry and technical ability will be vital for Portugal’s rhythm in midfield.

Bernardo Silva and Bruno Fernandes, the Premier League’s creative powerhouses from Manchester City and Manchester United respectively, remain central to Martinez’s plans and are expected to start regularly at the tournament.

However, Joao Palhinha and Matheus Fernandes have missed out on selection, following disappointing domestic seasons with Tottenham and West Ham, both of whom were embroiled in relegation battles.

Attackers

Leading the attack will be Cristiano Ronaldo, who, at 41, continues to defy age and remains Portugal’s biggest goal threat. Despite being past his prime, Ronaldo finished as the top scorer in the 2025 Nations League, guiding Portugal to the title. Having already lifted the Euro 2016 trophy, the World Cup remains the final frontier for the legendary number 7, who has been in fine scoring form in Saudi Arabia.

AC Milan’s Rafael Leao and Francisco Conceicao from Serie A add pace and flair to the frontline, while Sporting CP’s Francisco Trincao, after an outstanding season in the Primeira Liga, provides another quality option out wide.

Portugal’s Key Players

Ronaldo will once again be the focal point of Portugal’s attack, carrying the hopes of the nation. Rafael Leao is expected to support him from the left wing, despite AC Milan’s struggles this season.

In midfield, Bruno Fernandes and Vitinha will be vital in controlling possession and creating scoring opportunities, while Nuno Mendes will play a dual role in defence and attack. Under Luis Enrique at PSG, Mendes has developed into one of Europe’s most complete full-backs and is expected to play a crucial role in the World Cup campaign.

Predicted Portugal Starting XI for World Cup 2026

Diogo Costa is widely tipped to start in goal, backed up by Jose Sa. The defence is likely to consist of Nuno Mendes, Ruben Dias, Goncalo Inacio, and Matheus Nunes, offering both solidity and attacking options from the wings.

In midfield, the partnership of Vitinha and Joao Neves is set to continue, with Bruno Fernandes positioned slightly ahead to link play with the attack.

Up front, Rafael Leao and Francisco Conceicao are expected to operate on the wings, with Ronaldo leading the line as the central striker and main goal threat.

Predicted Portugal Starting XI (4-3-3): Costa; Nunes, Dias, Inacio, Mendes; Vitinha, Joao Neves; Leao, Fernandes, Conceicao; Ronaldo.