Portugal squad for March 2026: Cristiano Ronaldo not on roster for friendlies with Mexico and United States

In a surprising development, Portugal's national soccer team has announced its squad for the upcoming March 2026 friendlies against Mexico and the United States, with Cristiano Ronaldo notably absent from the roster. The matches, scheduled to take place on March 24th and March 28th respectively, will serve as key opportunities for Portugal to test its depth ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Ronaldo's Absence: A New Era for Portugal?

Cristiano Ronaldo, who has been an integral part of Portugal's international success for almost two decades, is not included in the squad. This decision marks a significant moment for the national team as they begin to transition towards a new generation of talent. The 41-year-old forward has been a staple in Portugal's lineup, contributing significantly during his tenure with record appearances and goals.

National team coach Fernando Santos has indicated that the focus is on youth and experimentation, suggesting that this decision could pave the way for emerging players to make their mark on the international stage.

Portugal's Squad for the Friendlies

The squad features a blend of established stars and promising newcomers. Key players such as Bruno Fernandes and Bernardo Silva are expected to lead the charge, while youngsters like João Félix and Gonçalo Ramos are anticipated to play pivotal roles.

• Goalkeepers: Diogo Costa, Rui Silva, José Sá
• Defenders: Rúben Dias, João Cancelo, Nuno Mendes, Pepe, Diogo Dalot
• Midfielders: Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva, Rúben Neves, Matheus Nunes
• Forwards: João Félix, Gonçalo Ramos, Rafael Leão, Pedro Neto

Focus on Youth and Future Prospects

Coach Santos emphasized the importance of building a team that can compete at the highest level in the upcoming World Cup. "Our priority is to find the right balance between experience and youth," Santos explained. "These friendlies will be crucial for assessing our younger players against top-tier teams like Mexico and the United States."

As Portugal prepares for these high-profile matches, fans and analysts alike will watch closely to see how the team performs without its legendary number 7. The decision to leave Ronaldo out of the squad may signal a shift in strategy, focusing more on team dynamics and long-term goals rather than individual brilliance.

Both friendlies will be broadcast live, providing fans worldwide with a chance to see the future of Portuguese soccer unfold on the international stage.