On paper, Portugal might have the strongest team in the world ahead of the 2026 World Cup. They are enjoying a real golden generation – can they win their first World Cup this year?
Today, we took a look at how Roberto Martinez’s men might line up at the tournament, using a classic 4-2-3-1 formation.
We’ve included a few Premier League stars in our predicted XI, including players from teams such as Manchester City and Manchester United – before we begin, can you guess who they are?
GK: Diogo Costa
Arguably one of the best goalkeepers in the world, Porto have fought tooth and nail to keep him at the club. They’ve succeeded so far, but one feels he will inevitably outgrow them at some stage.
The 2026 World Cup will give him an excellent opportunity to become a superstar – a phenomenal shot-stopper, he is the obvious choice for Martinez to play between the sticks.
RB: Matheus Nunes
Matheus Nunes has transformed into an elite right-back this season. This has come at the right time for Portugal – right-back is one of their weaker positions in terms of squad depth.
He isn’t the fastest full-back in the world, but his range of passing is phenomenal – he’s starting resemble Trent Alexander-Arnold during his Liverpool heyday.
CB: Ruben Dias
Another Manchester City star, Ruben Dias is a commanding centre-back and will be the cornerstone of Portugal’s backline at the World Cup.
This certainly hasn’t been Dias’ best season, but Portugal will need an experienced centre-back at the heart of their defence to hold everything together.
CB: Goncalo Inacio
Goncalo Inacio is in this XI primarily for his ball-playing abilities. He is a fine defender, but he excels most when on the ball.
As a left-footed centre-back, Inacio will give Portugal a much wider range of passing when they’re trying to build out from the back.