Portugal Drop Palhinha for World Cup as Martínez Banks on Attack

Roberto Martínez has left João Palhinha out of Portugal's 27-man World Cup squad, gambling on an attack-heavy selection that includes four number 10s and just one recognised defensive midfielder for the tournament starting 11 June.

The Portugal manager confirmed Samu Costa as Palhinha's replacement, praising the midfielder's "energy, grit and tactical aspect" while revealing plans to deploy bernardo-silva" class="entity-link entity-link--player">Bernardo Silva, Bruno Fernandes, João Félix and Trincão in advanced playmaking roles.

The Big Surprises: Palhinha Out, Samu Costa In

Palhinha's absence marks the most significant selection shock ahead of World Cup 2026. The Fulham midfielder has anchored Portugal's midfield in major tournaments since Euro 2020.

Rising Star Mora Also Misses Out

Rodrigo Mora, who enjoyed a breakthrough season with FC Porto, failed to make the expanded 27-man roster despite being tipped for inclusion. Martínez acknowledged the youngster's talent but suggested his time would come after the tournament.

"Rodrigo Mora is an incredible talent and we're in good hands. Not for the future, but for now. The World Cup has a cycle and after the World Cup the door opens."

The manager pointed to previous call-ups for Carlos Forbs and Mateus Fernandes as evidence of his willingness to blood young talent, positioning Mora as part of that emerging generation.

Samu Costa's Rapid Rise

Samu Costa's selection represents a meteoric rise for the 23-year-old, who only made his Portugal debut in March. The Almería midfielder impressed during the international break, earning Martínez's trust for the biggest stage.

"Samu Costa showed energy, grit, the tactical aspect... He's a more defensive midfielder, which I think is very important for this tournament."

Defensive Concerns: Can Portugal Cope Without Their Shield?

Palhinha's omission leaves Portugal with significant questions in defensive midfield. The 28-year-old has started 15 of Portugal's last 20 competitive matches, providing the platform for their creative players to flourish.

Rúben Dias Fitness Under Scrutiny

Adding to defensive worries, Martínez confirmed ongoing monitoring of Rúben Dias' fitness. The Manchester City centre-back has been "prepared for three games" but remains under assessment.

"We're following all the information and it's a process. Until 16 June we can evaluate all players and substitute if there's any problem."

Portugal can make changes to their squad until 16 June, five days after the tournament begins, leaving the door open for late alterations if Dias fails to prove his fitness.

Defensive Depth Tested

Without Palhinha's protection and with Dias' participation uncertain, Portugal's defensive stability faces its sternest test. The squad contains just three recognised centre-backs alongside Dias:

• Pepe (41 years old)
• António Silva (20 years old)
• Gonçalo Inácio (22 years old)

This lightweight defensive contingent contrasts sharply with the attacking riches at Martínez's disposal.

Martínez's Attacking Gamble: Four Number 10s and a New Philosophy

The selection reveals Martínez's clear tactical vision: Portugal will overwhelm opponents with creative talent. Four players capable of operating as number 10s made the cut, signalling an ultra-attacking approach.

Creative Overload Strategy

"At 10, we're going to use Trincão, Bernardo Silva, Bruno Fernandes and João Félix. That's it."

This quartet represents €280 million worth of attacking talent, with each player offering different qualities:

• Bernardo Silva: Press resistance and close control
• Bruno Fernandes: Vertical passing and goal threat
• João Félix: Dribbling and acceleration
• Trincão: Width and direct running

Tactical Evolution Under Martínez

The Belgian coach has progressively shifted Portugal away from the pragmatic approach that won Euro 2016. His squad selection confirms a philosophy prioritising possession and chance creation over defensive solidity.

With ronaldo" class="entity-link entity-link--player">Cristiano Ronaldo likely playing his sixth and final World Cup, Martínez appears determined to maximise Portugal's attacking potential. The inclusion of four number 10s suggests formations with multiple creative players operating between the lines.

This approach worked during qualifying, where Portugal scored 36 goals in 10 matches. But the World Cup presents a different challenge, where defensive mistakes prove more costly.

What Happens Next

Portugal face a nervous wait over Rúben Dias' fitness, with the 16 June deadline looming for potential squad changes. Martínez must also finalise his tactical setup, balancing the creative riches with defensive requirements.

The Portugal squad begins preparations knowing their manager has chosen attack over defence. Whether this bold approach delivers Ronaldo a fairytale ending or exposes fatal flaws will define Portugal's World Cup campaign.