Portugal’s football icon, Cristiano Ronaldo, has conveyed his immense pride following his inclusion in the national squad for the forthcoming Euro 2024 championships. The announcement came on Tuesday when the Portuguese national team, under the stewardship of head coach Roberto Martinez, unveiled its 26-player squad for the highly anticipated tournament scheduled to commence on June 15 in Germany.
Expressing his enthusiasm and nationalistic fervor, Ronaldo took to Instagram to share his feelings. The message was simple yet powerful. “Proud to be back representing @portugal at Euro. Let’s go with it,” Ronaldo wrote, setting a determined tone for the team’s journey ahead.
At 39 years of age, Ronaldo’s selection for Euro 2024 marks a significant milestone. This will be his 11th major international tournament, an extraordinary feat that underscores his enduring talent and commitment to the sport. The former Real Madrid star boasts an impressive record of 206 appearances for his country, during which he has netted 128 goals. As he gears up for another major tournament, Ronaldo aims to extend his record-breaking tally, strengthening his legacy as one of football’s greatest players.
Portugal’s attacking line-up is bolstered by more than just Ronaldo’s presence. Head coach Roberto Martinez has assembled a formidable array of six other forwards, including Bernardo Silva of Manchester City, Liverpool’s Diogo Jota, Francisco Conceicao from FC Porto, Goncalo Ramos currently with PSG, Joao Felix of FC Barcelona, Wolverhampton Wanderers’ Pedro Neto, and Rafael Leao from AC Milan. Each of these players brings unique skills and attributes, creating a diverse and dynamic offensive unit poised to challenge any defense in the tournament.
Beyond their potent attacking options, Portugal’s squad features a strong foundation across all positions. The goalkeeping selections include Diogo Costa (FC Porto), Rui Patricio (AS Roma), and Jose Sa (Wolverhampton Wanderers).
. Diego Costa has particularly been a standout performer between the posts, while Rui Patricio offers reliable backup with significant experience.
The defensive lineup is equally robust. It includes Ruben Dias of Manchester City, Joao Cancelo from FC Barcelona, seasoned veteran Pepe of FC Porto, and Manchester United’s Diogo Dalot. These players form a resilient and experienced defensive core capable of withstanding the pressures of high-stakes matches.
Portugal’s midfield is brimming with talent and versatility. Manchester United’s Bruno Fernandes, Joao Palhinha from Fulham FC, and Ruben Neves (Al-Hilal) are the notable names who will orchestrate the play in the center of the park. Complementing them are Joao Neves from SL Benfica and Otavio Monteiro of Al Nassr, who will be expected to supply both defensive cover and offensive support.
As they prepare for Euro 2024, Martinez’s squad will engage in friendly matches against Finland, Croatia, and Ireland in June. These games will serve as crucial warm-ups, allowing the team to fine-tune their strategies and build cohesion.
In the group stage of Euro 2024, Portugal will face tough competition, lining up against Czechia, Turkey, and Georgia. These matches will undoubtedly test the squad’s mettle and offer a glimpse into their potential capabilities in the tournament.
In addition to the well-rounded squad, Portugal has a mix of youth and experience that promises to be a formidable force in Euro 2024. Head coach Roberto Martinez has strategically selected players who are not only skilled but also adaptable, ensuring that the team can adjust their tactics depending on their opposition.
The full roster reads as follows:
* **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)
As the countdown to Euro 2024 begins, all eyes will be on Ronaldo and his teammates to see if they can bring glory to Portugal once again. The blend of seasoned veterans and emerging talents in the squad presents a promising outlook for Portugal’s campaign in Germany.
