Portuguese coach Martínez gives information about physical fitness ahead of the clash with Nigeria
Portugal head coach Roberto Martínez provided an update on the fitness of key players ahead of his team’s upcoming international matches, including their friendly against Nigeria.
Speaking at a press conference, Martínez confirmed that Manchester City right-back Matheus Nunes is currently not ready for training and will miss Portugal’s first warm-up game against Chile.
The Seleção das Quinas are scheduled to face the Super Eagles of Nigeria on Wednesday, June 10, which coincides with Portugal Day, a national public holiday commemorating the poet Luís de Camões.
Injury concerns are affecting Portugal’s preparations
Martínez emphasized that the coaching staff will avoid returning players too soon, especially with multiple games in a row.
“Unfortunately, Matheus Nunes is not ready for training yet, so he is out of the squad for tomorrow. It is not time to take any chances. We hope Matheus will be ready for the second game against Nigeria,” he said, as quoted by A Bola.
The Portugal coach also gave an update on striker João Félix, who remains under observation and will undergo a late fitness assessment before a final decision is made.
“João Félix will train and we will make a decision after training, but I think the situation is different. I feel it is positive and he will be ready to play tomorrow,” added Martínez.
The schedule of matches in Nigeria is part of a wider preparation plan
Martínez also explained that the timing of the match against Nigeria has symbolic and psychological value as part of Portugal’s wider preparations for the World Cup.
Meanwhile, the Super Eagles have already started preparations in Lisbon with 22 players taking part in training on Friday, including winger Samuel Chukwueze and midfielder Alex Iwobi.
