The World Cup is edging closer, with Mexico vs South Africa kicking this summer’s competition off on June 11. Many countries are announcing their final squads for this summer, and Roberto Martinez has named the Portugal World Cup squad. Cristiano Ronaldo, Bruno Fernandes, and Vitinha have been selected. We look at three under-the-radar players selected by the Portugal manager.
Roberto Martinez Selects Final Squad
Three Under The Radar Players Picked
There is always an expectation that Portugal will compete in the later stages of every major international competition. Here is the full squad selected by Roberto Martinez. Ricardo Velho is named as a fourth-choice goalkeeper who will only take part in case there is an injury to the other three.
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Goalkeepers: Diogo Costa, José Sá, Rui Silva, Ricardo Velho
Defenders: Diogo Dalot, Matheus Nunes, Nélson Semedo, João Cancelo, Nuno Mendes, Gonçalo Inácio, Renato Veiga, Rúben Dias, Tomás Araújo
Midfielders: Rúben Neves, Samuel Costa, João Neves, Vitinha, Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva
Forwards: João Félix, Francisco Trincão, Francisco Conceição, Pedro Neto, Rafael Leão, Gonçalo Guedes, Gonçalo Ramos, Cristiano Ronaldo
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Samuel Costa
The first name on our list is the 25-year-old midfielder Samuel “Samu” de Almeida Costa, who currently plays in midfield for Mallorca in La Liga. Capped four times for his country, Costa deserves his call-up to the Portugal World Cup squad.
He has played 35 times for Mallorca this season, scoring seven times and providing two assists. “Samu” is adept at protecting his team’s defence. He excels at timing his tackles and making vital interceptions. Costa could play a huge role for Martinez as the tournament progresses. If he gets the chance, the 25-year-old could excel.
Renato Veiga
The next name on our list will be familiar to Chelsea fans: versatile defender Renato Veiga. The 22-year-old will bring much-needed versatility to Roberto Martinez’s squad.
Veiga has enjoyed an impressive season at Villarreal, making 42 appearances in all competitions, helping his team finish third in La Liga. Veiga mainly plays at centre-back, but can also play left- back, and is more than capable of playing in midfield. A robust, versatile player who works tirelessly for the team. Having players like Veiga will be vital for the Portugal World Cup squad.
Tomas Araujo
The last name on our list is Benfica defender Tomas Araujo. The 24-year-old played 39 times in all competitions for Benfica this season. He’s enjoyed an impressive season in the Primeira Liga. He’s been capped three times by his country. He reads the game exceptionally well, and rarely looks flustered, whether at centre back or right back.
It remains to be seen just how big his role will be in the Portugal World Cup squad, but his talent is undeniable, and given the opportunity by Martinez, he could excel on the biggest stage this summer.
Featured Image Credit:
IMAGO / Matthias Koch
