Martinez Names Portugal's 26-Man World Cup Squad — Ronaldo Makes History at Record Sixth Tournament; Diogo Jota Honoured With Symbolic 27th Place

Portugal head coach Roberto Martinez unveiled his definitive World Cup squad on May 19, confirming Cristiano Ronaldo (41, Al Nassr) for a record-breaking sixth FIFA World Cup — making him the first player in tournament history to appear at six editions. The squad is formally a 26-player selection, but Martinez announced an exceptional honorary 27th place dedicated to the memory of Diogo Jota, the Liverpool forward who passed away before the tournament, as a tribute from the entire squad. Key squad inclusions: Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United), Bernardo Silva (Manchester City), João Neves (PSG), Vitinha (PSG), Rafael Leão (AC Milan), Gonçalo Ramos (PSG), Rúben Dias (Manchester City), Nuno Mendes (PSG), Pedro Neto (Chelsea). The squad also features four UEFA Champions League winners. Portugal face Group K opponents DR Congo (June 18), Colombia (June 22), and Uzbekistan (June 27). Ronaldo will serve as captain. His inclusion had been widely anticipated following consistent form for Al Nassr, but his age and the potential emotional weight of a farewell tournament add a significant narrative layer. The concurrent Adidas campaign imagery of Ronaldo and Messi has amplified the 'last dance' storyline for both legends. 23 days to the June 11 opener at Estadio Azteca.