As Portugal prepares for its massive UEFA Nations League A matchup against Norway, the squad will be without star midfielder Bruno Fernandes.
The Manchester United captain featured in Portugal's last match, a 1-0 win over Wales on Thursday at Estádio José Alvalade in Lisbon. He played 90 minutes before ultimately getting subbed off for João Neves.
Despite playing the majority of Portugal's previous match, the 32-year-old has been dealing with an injury he suffered at United.
"Against Wales, we went in with practically everyone physically available and came out with a complicated problem with Bruno Fernandes; we'll see what happens," Portugal manager Jorge Jesus said at a press conference.
"He's coming off an injury at United, and he told me he's
been playing with that pain for the last three games, which is hindering him.
"It was one of the factors that prevented Bruno from playing at his best against Wales. I've already spoken to him, and I prefer not to risk it in this game, so he's fully fit for the Denmark match."
Fernandes has featured in seven matches across all competitions this season for the Red Devils, starting and going the full 90 in all five Premier League fixtures.
In the campaign, the star midfielder has registered five goal contributions, including a hat-trick performance against Premier League returnees Ipswich Town.
Portugal takes on Group 4 leader Norway, which pulled off a 3-2 victory against Denmark courtesy of superstar striker Erling Haaland's brace. The Vikings also continued their impressive form at home, where they have not lost since March 2024.
After its battle in Norway, Portugal will travel to Denmark on Thursday, Oct. 1, before hosting Norway on Sunday, Oct. 4, at Estádio do Dragão in Porto.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Why is Bruno Fernandes not playing for Portugal vs. Norway?
