Portugal Predicted XI for the 2026 World Cup

With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, Portugal appear to possess the most star-studded squad on paper, and manager Roberto Martínez is expected to lean on a tried-and-tested 4-2-3-1 shape that maximises both experience and emerging talent. Essential Football projects the XI most likely to take the field when the Seleção open their campaign.

Between the posts, Porto's undisputed No. 1 remains the first name inked onto the teamsheet. The Dragons have resisted multiple offers for the keeper, whose reflexes and command of the area already place him among the world's elite. The global stage in North America could be the springboard that elevates him from highly rated to household name.

An intriguing solution has emerged at right-back: Matheus Nunes has reinvented himself as an attacking full-back this season. While not blessed with searing pace, his distribution evokes memories of Trent Alexander-Arnold in his pomp, offering Portugal a creative outlet from deep.

Anchoring the back four, Manchester City's Rúben Dias will marshal the defensive line. Despite a campaign below his usual standards, the centre-back's leadership and organisational skills remain indispensable. Beside him, Gonçalo Inácio's left-footed precision adds balance and composure when building possession from the back.

On the opposite flank, Nuno Mendes has answered past critics with improved defensive diligence to complement his trademark surges forward. Many now rate the Paris Saint-Germain flyer as the planet's premier left-back.

In midfield, the PSG connection takes centre stage. Vitinha, instrumental in the French club's recent success, will operate in a slightly advanced role rather than as a pure holder, allowing him to showcase the five Champions League goals he has already bagged this term. Alongside him, João Neves supplies boundless creativity and an innate understanding forged at club level, ensuring cohesion at the heart of the side.

The attacking trident is headlined by Bruno Fernandes in the No. 10 position. The Manchester United captain's forward thrust and eye for spectacular strikes make him Martínez's primary creator. On the right, Francisco Trincão's prolific scoring record earns him the nod, while Rafael Leão, recovered from an injury-hit season, will terrorise full-backs from the left wing despite spending portions of the domestic calendar deployed centrally.

Leading the line, 41-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo is poised for what is almost certainly his World Cup swansong. Even with a reduced workload, his presence guarantees goals and an aura that teammates and opponents alike cannot ignore.

Portugal's blend of seasoned winners and exuberant prodigies has supporters daring to dream of a maiden world title. Whether Martínez can balance Ronaldo's enduring star power with the dynamism of the nation's golden generation may determine if the Seleção convert paper potential into tangible glory.

Portugal predicted XI (4-2-3-1): Porto keeper; Matheus Nunes, Rúben Dias, Gonçalo Inácio, Nuno Mendes; João Neves, Vitinha; Francisco Trincão, Bruno Fernandes, Rafael Leão; Cristiano Ronaldo.