Fernando Santos called up 26 players to the Portugal national team for the 2022/2023 UEFA Nations League. Of the names called, the former coach of the Greek national team will still rely on a number of elderly players.
Portugal will travel to the Fortuna Arena Stadium to face the Czech Republic on Sunday (25/9/2022) early morning WIB. Then the Selecao host Spain at the Estadio Munipical de Braga, three days later.
From a list of 26 players who were called, Fernando Santos still believes in the figure of senior players. Moreover, Portugal's position in the standings in the 2022/23 UEFA Nations League League A Group 2 is still not safe.
There is so much pressure in the two matches that Portugal will play. Here are four elderly players who are still trusted to defend the Portugal national team in the 2022/23 UEFA Nations League. Look at it right away,
Pepe
The first old age player who became Portugal's mainstay this time was Pepe. The defender, known for his uncompromising performances, is 39 years old and still maintaining his form.
The player who is now playing for FC Porto can be said to have complete skills. His speed and toughness make it so difficult for opposing strikers to get past him.
Pepe, who has collected 127 caps with the Selecao, will compete with names such as Ruben Dias, Danilo Pereira, and young blood Tiago Djalo to fill the two central defender slots ahead of facing the Czech Republic and Spain.
Rui Patricio
Rui Patricio is still Fernando Santos' mainstay to fill the goalkeeper position. The player who defended Wolverhampton has been the main goalkeeper for the Selecao since the 2014 World Cup.
Of course, the experience and skills of this 34-year-old player are still very much needed by Santos. Rui Patricio has collected a total of 104 caps with Portugal and has presented two prestigious titles for the Selecao namely the Euro 2016 trophy and the UEFA Nations League in 2019.
William Carvalho
The next senior player called by Fernando Santos is William Carvalho. The player who plays as a defensive midfielder is strengthening Real Betis and plays an important role at the club.
This 30-year-old player has packed 73 caps and scored five goals while playing for the Portugal national team. Together with Real Betis, Carvalho is a key pillar and they are in third place in the La Liga standings.
Cristiano Ronaldo
The last name is definitely Cristiano Ronaldo. Even though he still maintains his fitness and playing level above average, the 37-year-old's international career seems to have reached the final stage.
This is seen in his role at Manchester United this season. Ronaldo has only started two starts and the rest he played as a substitute. Ronaldo is fighting to get to his best level.
Even though his abilities and playing minutes are running low, Ronaldo's role in the Portugal national team is still very big and much needed. He is the captain, main goalscorer and icon of the Portugal national team.
Source: FPF