Portugal’s national football team has officially announced its 26-player roster for the upcoming UEFA Euro 2024, set to take place in Germany. In a move that has generated significant excitement among fans and football pundits alike, head coach Roberto Martinez has included veteran forward Cristiano Ronaldo in the squad. The selection means Ronaldo, at the age of 39, is set to participate in his 11th major international tournament, a record that underscores his enduring impact on the sport.
Cristiano Ronaldo, who currently plays for Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia, took to Instagram to voice his enthusiasm and pride over his selection. “Proud to be back representing @portugal at Euro. Let’s go with it,” he captioned his post, accompanied by a photo that captured the essence of his determination and patriotism.
The anticipation and buzz surrounding this announcement are palpable, given Ronaldo’s illustrious career. The former Real Madrid star boasts an impressive 206 appearances for Portugal, in which he has scored a staggering 128 goals. With Euro 2024 on the horizon, Ronaldo will be eyeing to further extend this record-breaking tally.
Joining Ronaldo in the forward line, Portugal’s squad also welcomes a variety of skilled attackers. The ensemble includes Bernardo Silva from Manchester City, Liverpool’s Diogo Jota, Francisco Conceicao, Goncalo Ramos from Paris Saint Germain, Joao Felix of FC Barcelona, Pedro Neto from Wolverhampton Wanderers, and Rafael Leao from AC Milan. This arsenal of talent promises an exciting offensive strategy for the team.
Also, Portuguese goalkeeper Diego Costa, who has been an asset at FC Porto, is expected to anchor the defense from his position in goal. He will compete for the starting spot with Jose Sa from Wolverhampton Wanderers and Rui Patricio of AS Roma, both seasoned professionals.
The defensive lineup is equally formidable, featuring Ruben Dias (Manchester City), Joao Cancelo (FC Barcelona), veteran Pepe (FC Porto), and Diogo Dalot (Manchester United).
. These players will be crucial in forming a steadfast defensive wall as Portugal aims to clinch the European championship.
In the midfield, the team boasts a strong mix of talent and experience. Bruno Fernandes from Manchester United leads a group that includes Joao Palhinha from Fulham FC, Ruben Neves who recently moved to Al-Hilal, Otavio Monteiro from Al Nassr, and Vitinha of PSG. The midfield’s strength and versatility will be key in Portugal’s campaign, providing the necessary support for both defensive and offensive plays.
Ahead of the main event, Portugal will engage in a series of friendly matches scheduled for June against Finland, Croatia, and Ireland. These preparatory matches are expected to refine the team’s strategy and chemistry as they head into the group stages of Euro 2024. In the group stage, Martinez’s squad will compete against Czechia, Turkey, and Georgia, matches that are anticipated to be both challenging and competitive.
Ronaldo’s participation and leadership, coupled with the youthful vigour of the squad’s new talents, are expected to elevate Portugal’s performance. The fans, who hold high hopes for the country’s success, have expressed widespread support and enthusiasm following the announcement.
Moreover, Portugal’s comprehensive squad ensures a balanced mix of experience and youth across the board. The blend of seasoned veterans and promising new players is expected to be a strategic advantage for Martinez, providing depth and options in each position.
The narrative within Portugal’s football scene is one of optimism and anticipation. With the tournament inching closer, the collective focus will be on how the team’s pre-tournament preparations transpire. As June approaches, the excitement in Portugal and among football fans globally continues to build, with everyone keen to see how this well-rounded squad will fare on the European stage.
Here is the full Portugal squad for Euro 2024:
**Goalkeepers:**
– Diogo Costa (FC Porto)
– Jose Sa (Wolverhampton Wanderers FC)
– Rui Patricio (AS Roma)
**Defenders:**
– Antonio Silva (SL Benfica)
– Danilo Pereira (PSG)
– Diogo Dalot (Manchester United)
– Goncalo Inacio (Sporting CP)
– Joao Cancelo (FC Barcelona)
– Nelson Semedo (Wolverhampton Wanderers)
– Nuno Mendes (PSG)
– Pepe (FC Porto)
– Ruben Dias (Manchester City)
**Midfielders:**
– Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United)
– Joao Neves (SL Benfica)
– Joao Palhinha (Fulham FC)
– Otavio Monteiro (Al Nassr)
– Ruben Neves (Al-Hilal)
– Vitinha (PSG)
**Forwards:**
– Bernardo Silva (Manchester City)
– Cristiano Ronaldo (Al Nassr)
– Diogo Jota (Liverpool FC)
– Francisco Conceicao (FC Porto)
– Goncalo Ramos (PSG)
– Joao Felix (FC Barcelona)
– Pedro Neto (Wolverhampton Wanderers)
– Rafael Leao (AC Milan)
With agency inputs, the journey ahead for Portugal is lined with expectations, and the players, led by the iconic Cristiano Ronaldo, are all set to deliver a memorable performance at Euro 2024.
