Bu Eucharia Ajuzie   Port Harcourt, Facts Happening News – Ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, all 48 participating countries are expected to submit their final 26-man squads before June 1, although several nations have already unveiled their selections ahead of the deadline. Countries such as France, Croatia, Belgium, and Brazil have already announced their squads. Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti stirred debate after recalling Neymar Jr while leaving out one of the Premier League’s standout performers this season. Portugal head coach Roberto Martinez has now also revealed his squad for the tournament, making some surprising and tough decisions in the process. The squad features four goalkeepers, including first-choice keeper Diogo Costa, alongside José Sá of Wolves, Rui Silva, and Ricardo Velho. In defence, Manchester City duo Matheus Nunes and Rúben Dias were selected, as well as Manchester United full-back Diogo Dalot and Paris Saint-Germain star Nuno Mendes. Portugal’s midfield includes Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes, Manchester City playmaker Bernardo Silva, and PSG teammates Vitinha and João Neves. Leading the attack is Portuguese icon Cristiano Ronaldo, who is set to participate in his 13th major international competition. He is joined in attack by Chelsea winger Pedro Neto and AC Milan forward Rafael Leão. One of the most talked-about omissions from the squad is West Ham United midfielder Matheus Fernandes. Despite impressing throughout the season and earning his first Portugal call-up in March, the 21-year-old failed to secure a place in the final squad for the summer tournament. Fernandes’ performances have reportedly attracted interest from several top European clubs, including Manchester United, with Bruno Fernandes said to have personally recommended him. Another notable absentee is Tottenham Hotspur midfielder João Palhinha, who has made 37 appearances for Portugal since making his debut in March 2021. Portugal’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup includes: 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, and Tomás Araújo. Midfielders: Rúben Neves, Samuel Costa, João Neves, Vitinha, Bruno Fernandes, and Bernardo Silva. Forwards: João Félix, Francisco Trincão, Francisco Conceição, Pedro Neto, Rafael Leão, Gonçalo Guedes, Gonçalo Ramos, and Cristiano Ronaldo.