Martínez rules Rúben Dias out of Portugal v DR Congo opener and explains decision | OneFootball

Rúben Dias will miss Portugal’s World Cup opener against the Democratic Republic of the Congo after Roberto Martínez confirmed the defender is not ready.

According to Glorioso 1904, Portugal begin Group K on Wednesday in Houston, United States, and the head coach has decided not to involve the Manchester City centre-back.

Dias took a knock in the final warm-up, a 2-1 win over Nigeria, and only rejoined group training on the eve of the game, so the staff chose not to risk him.

Martínez said the issue is unrelated to any previous problems at Manchester City, noting the player arrived in good condition, completed 90 minutes in his last Premier League match and trained normally during the camp. Medical checks detected no structural damage, but the team want everyone at 100% for the tournament.

He framed the incident as a routine contact in a match situation and stressed the decision is precautionary. Dias is working individually as he continues his recovery.

Source: Glorioso 1904