Jorge Jesus takes charge of Portugal's first training session as Nations League defence begins
Jorge Jesus oversaw his first training session as Portugal's head coach on Monday, marking the official start of a new era for the national team. The session, held behind closed doors at the Cidade do Futebol in Oeiras, focused on individual gym work and recovery for the 25 players called up for the upcoming Nations League matches.
New faces and familiar returns
The Portuguese Football Federation's training complex welcomed several notable figures. Goalkeeper Samuel Soares, who plays for Benfica, received his first senior call-up. Defender Nuno Tavares, currently at Lazio, also joins the squad for the first time under the new management.
Midfielder João Palhinha and forward Fábio Silva, who plays his club football at Borussia Dortmund, return to the national team setup. The session also marked a new role for Bruno Alves, who has joined the coaching staff.
Players arrived at the facility before the 15:00 deadline on Monday. Reports noted a relaxed atmosphere, with Rúben Neves and João Félix seen playing snooker in the team quarters.
Jesus Emphasizes Working Method
The new head coach, appointed in July 2026 to succeed Roberto Martínez, spoke at the Portugal Football Globes gala on Monday evening. Addressing his philosophy, Jesus stated that Portugal possesses some of the best coaches in the world.
"We have a 'school' and an idea of play that, today, the great coaches are following," Jesus said. He described his 36-year career and added that leading the national team is the "'cherry' on top of the cake."
The 72-year-old coach is known for an attacking style of play and high pressing. He has selected 13 players he has previously worked with to help accelerate the implementation of his tactical ideas.
Nations League Campaign Kicks Off Thursday
Portugal begins its defense of the UEFA Nations League title on Thursday. The team hosts Wales at 19:45 at the Estádio José Alvalade in Lisbon in a Group A4 match.
Wales will arrive without Harry Wilson. The Leeds United midfielder, who has 69 caps and 17 goals, did not travel with the squad due to fitness issues. Wales manager Craig Bellamy also called up replacements for Karl Darlow and Nathan Broadhead.
Portugal's qualifying window continues with an away match against Norway in Oslo on 27 September, followed by a trip to Copenhagen to face Denmark on 1 October. The team then hosts Norway at the Estádio do Dragão in Porto on 4 October.
Looking Back at Nations League Success
Portugal has won two of the four Nations League editions held so far. The team's first title came in 2019, secured with a 1-0 win over the Netherlands in Porto. Portugal won the competition again in 2025, defeating Spain 5-3 on penalties after a 2-2 draw in extra time.
Under-21 Squad Adjustment
The Portugal Under-21 team also gathered at the Cidade do Futebol to prepare for European Championship qualifiers. Coach Luís Freire was forced to make a change to his squad after FC Porto defender Martim Fernandes was deemed unavailable due to fitness issues.
José Silva, who plays for Gil Vicente, was called up as a replacement. Portugal currently leads Group B with 19 points and can secure qualification for the final tournament with a win over Bulgaria on Friday. The Under-21 side will also play Gibraltar in Ponta Delgada in the Azores on 30 September.
