João Félix and ex-Benfica star in spotlight before Portugal v Ireland | OneFootball

João Félix already knows that he will not be an option for the Portugal vs. Ireland clash, part of another round of qualification for the 2026 World Cup. The Portuguese international has been 'crossed off' by Roberto Martínez, who also made a point of leaving out the former Benfica player, Nuno Tavares.

This information was reported this morning, October 11, by the newspaper Record. It seems that the national coach has decided to rest Al Nassr's number 79, who is having a positive start to the season, after he missed Portugal's last training session, due to a myalgia.

In João Félix's case, the reason for being left out of the game is related to physical issues, while for Nuno Tavares, the situation is simpler. The Lazio left-back was called to fill João Neves' spot, who was released before the start of the training camp, and Roberto Martínez, in his view, will not need his contribution against the Irish.

It is worth noting that Portugal could secure a spot in the World Cup during this international break. To do so, the team needs to beat Ireland today and, a few days later, defeat Hungary again. However, the press assumes that the coach might make changes to the starting lineup and present the following eleven: Diogo Costa, Diogo Dalot, Rúben Dias, Gonçalo Inácio, Nuno Mendes, Vitinha, Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva, Francisco Conceição, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Rafael Leão.

João Félix - currently valued at 20 million euros - has been standing out while playing for Al Nassr. In the current sports season, the number 79 has participated in nine matches for the Saudis. In the 719 minutes he was on the pitch, he recorded eight goals and two assists.

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