Major Blow for Portugal as Star PSG Midfielder is Forced to Withdraw From National Team | OneFootball

PSG star ruled out through injury ahead of key World Cup qualifiers against Ireland and Hungary

Major Blow for Portugal as Star PSG Midfielder is Forced to Withdraw From National Team

The Portuguese Football Federation's officially confirmed the withdrawal of Joao Neves from the national team squad ahead of the October international window due to injury.

Neves ruled out, Tavares called up

Midfielder Joao Neves who missed Paris Saint Germain’s clash against Barcelona in Champions league, was deemed unfit to play after medical consultations between PSG & the Portuguese federation.

Coach Roberto Martinez responded by calling up Nuno Tavares of Lazio to replace Neves for the upcoming fixtures.

Injury setback for PSG star

Neves recent thigh injury follows brief absence in September. He'll continue treatment in Paris this week and is expected to regain full fitness gradually.

PSG’s medical team confirmed partial recovery but advised against international duty.

Portugal’s refreshed squad

Martínez’s squad sees the return of Nelson Semedo, Matheus Nunes and Rafael Leao, all back after missing previous call ups.

Semedo now at Fenerbahce, returns after over year out due to knee issues. Nunes re enters the midfield rotation after limited Euro 2024 showing while Leao (who has shone for Milan this season) adds firepower alongside Cristiano Ronaldo.