Portugal Coach Martinez Defends Expanded Squad Selection for 2026 World Cup
Portugal’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup includes an additional player for training purposes and a symbolic place for the late Liverpool forward, as Martinez prioritises tactical flexibility over traditional limits.
Portugal coach Roberto Martinez has confirmed a 27-man squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, a selection that includes an honorary “plus-one” in memory of Diogo Jota, who died in a car accident in July 2025. Speaking at Cidade do Futebol on Tuesday, Martinez clarified that the additional spot is occupied by fourth-choice goalkeeper Ricardo Velho, who will travel with the team but can only be added to the official 26-man list if one of the three registered keepers suffers an injury.
Martinez defended the structural composition of the squad, which features four goalkeepers and five fullbacks, citing the logistical complexities of the tournament. He noted that the demands of varying weather conditions, time zone changes, and the tournament’s length necessitate greater depth in specific positions. The coach highlighted the versatility of players such as Diogo Dalot, Joao Cancelo, and Matheus Nunes as key to this approach.
The squad includes Cristiano Ronaldo, who will make his sixth World Cup appearance at the age of 41. Martinez described the selection as comprising “27 players plus one,” explicitly referencing Jota’s spirit and example as the symbolic addition. “He is our strength, our joy,” Martinez said, adding that the team would fight for Jota’s dream following the loss of the Liverpool forward.
Portugal, the reigning Nations League champions, are scheduled to open their Group K campaign against the Democratic Republic of the Congo in Houston on June 17. The team will face Uzbekistan on June 23 and conclude the group stage against Colombia in Miami on June 27. FIFA rules require the squad to be at their Palm Beach, Florida training camp at least five days before the opening match.
Martinez also addressed the exclusion of several players, including Mateus Fernandes, Ricardo Horta, and Pedro Goncalves. The team will play warm-up matches against Chile in Oeiras on June 6 and Nigeria in Leiria on June 10 before the tournament begins. The 2026 FIFA World Cup is being hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, running from June 11 to July 19.
