After all, Pote missing out on Portugal was... Sporting's fault | OneFootball

Concerned about Pedro Gonçalves’ physical condition, Sporting maintained informal contact with the Portuguese Football Federation during the national team training camp. In agreement with the Lions, Roberto Martínez chose not to risk using the player, prioritizing his full recovery for the final stretch of the season while also keeping the 2026 World Cup in mind. As such, the ‘number 8’ was the only called-up player who did not play a single minute during this international break.

The playmaker arrived at the training camp with physical limitations and, in the first few days, carried out individualized work. According to the national team coach, the decision was made to avoid unnecessary risks, especially given the condition of the pitch and the player’s recent history: "My decision was not to take any risks, the pitch was a little dangerous. He arrived and had two or three days of individual work, so it was more important now to remove the danger and make sure he is well until the end of the season," Martínez explained.

The Spanish coach also had a direct conversation with Pedro Gonçalves, telling him that he will continue to monitor his progress. Although he is not a regular starter for the national team, the player still has a good chance of making the squad for the World Cup, depending mainly on his performances for Sporting in the coming weeks.

During the training camp, Pote took the opportunity to recover physically at a time when the schedule is becoming demanding. In this month alone, Sporting will have eight matches and the Portugal international is seen as an important player for Rui Borges. Even while being managed cautiously, the midfielder has been decisive. He scored twice against Alverca, found the net against Bodo/Glimt and provided two assists against Sp. Braga, positive signs that strengthen the possibility of securing a place at the World Cup.

This season, playing for Sporting, Pedro Gonçalves - valued at 28 million euros - has made 29 appearances. In 2,096 minutes played, the footballer, who is protected by an 80 million euro release clause until 2030, has already scored 14 goals and provided seven assists.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇵🇹 here.