Cristiano Ronaldo has been named in Portugal’s squad for the upcoming UEFA Nations League matches against Croatia and Scotland, despite a lackluster performance at Euro 2024.
The 39-year-old, who failed to score in what was his record sixth European Championship, saw Portugal exit in the quarter-finals. Nevertheless, he continues to enjoy the support of coach Roberto Martinez.
In a recent interview with Portuguese TV, Ronaldo addressed his future with the national team, stating, “When I quit the national team, I won’t tell anyone in advance… At the moment, what I want is to be able to help the Selecao.”
Ronaldo has started the new season strongly, scoring four goals in as many games for Saudi club Al-Nassr.
With Paris Saint-Germain striker Goncalo Ramos sidelined by an ankle injury, Ronaldo is expected to continue leading Portugal’s attack.
Meanwhile, coach Martinez is also looking to the future, with the inclusion of 17-year-old Sporting Lisbon winger Geovany Quenda in the squad.
Additionally, Chelsea left-back Renato Veiga and Lille defender Tiago Santos are among the new faces called up for the matches on September 5 and 8 in Lisbon.
Portugal Squad for Nations League Matches:
Goalkeepers: Diogo Costa (FC Porto), Jose Sa (Wolves/ENG), Rui Silva (Real Betis/ESP)
Defenders: Ruben Dias (Manchester City/ENG), Antonio Silva (Benfica), Renato Veiga (Chelsea/ENG), Goncalo Inacio (Sporting Lisbon), Tiago Santos (Lille/FRA), Diogo Dalot (Manchester United/ENG), Nuno Mendes (Paris Saint-Germain/FRA), Nelson Semedo (Wolves/ENG)
Midfielders: Joao Palhinha (Fulham/ENG), Joao Neves (Paris Saint-Germain/FRA), Vitinha (Paris Saint-Germain/FRA), Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United/ENG), Bernardo Silva (Manchester City/ENG), Ruben Neves (Al-Hilal/KSA)
Forwards: Joao Felix (Chelsea/ENG), Francisco Trincao (Sporting Lisbon), Pedro Goncalves (Sporting Lisbon), Rafael Leao (AC Milan/ITA), Geovany Quenda (Sporting Lisbon), Pedro Neto (Chelsea/ENG), Cristiano Ronaldo (Al-Nassr/KSA), Diogo Jota (Liverpool/ENG).
AFP
