Ruben Dias will be absent from Portugal’s 2026 World Cup opening match against DR Congo on the morning of May 18 due to not being in the best physical condition.
Speaking in an interview with the SportTV channel, coach Roberto Martinez stated that the Manchester City star has not yet fully recovered from his injury.
The Spanish tactician affirmed that the coaching staff will not take risks with this player’s fitness right in the opening match of Group K. “Ruben Dias has not fully recovered, and there is no reason for us to take risks at this moment,” Mr. Martinez shared specifically about his player’s situation.
The absence of Dias is considered a significant loss to the defense of the “European Seleccao,” as he is an important factor in the tactical setup of the maroon-shirted team.
However, the 52-year-old manager also offered optimistic signals, stating that the recovery process of the Manchester City defender is progressing well. He affirmed that his player will soon return to action in the upcoming matches of the 2026 World Cup.
Currently, the Portuguese national team’s coaching staff is considering alternative options for the center of the defense in preparation for the match in Houston. After the clash with DR Congo, the “European Selecao” will continue their journey in Group K with opponents Uzbekistan (June 23) and Colombia (June 27).
