Linked with Benfica, Ricardo Velho replaces Portugal’s first-choice | OneFootball

was the latest player called up by Roberto Martínez for the national team training camp. According to official FPF sources, the goalkeeper, who was once on Benfica's radar, was summoned following the withdrawal of Diogo Costa, Portugal’s first-choice keeper.

The news emerged on the afternoon of Monday, 23 March, with the Federation’s official channels reporting that Porto’s captain was not fit to contribute to the national team, in a squad that includes two Benfica players, António Silva and Tomás Araújo.

With the absence of Portugal’s first-choice goalkeeper confirmed, Roberto Martínez was forced to call up a replacement, and Ricardo Velho, currently playing in Turkey, was the option that gathered the most support. This is the second time the goalkeeper, who is tied to Farense, has been called up by the Spanish coach.

The goalkeeper’s call-up was not the only last-minute change Roberto Martínez had to make in recent days. It should be remembered that, in addition to Diogo Costa, the national team coach also released Rafael Leão and Rodrigo Mora. As an alternative, the Spaniard called up forward Paulinho.

It should also be remembered that the national team is holding one final training camp before the World Cup gathering, which will take place in the summer. .

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