Bruno Fernandes Ruled Out of Portugal’s Nations League Clash With Norway
Bruno Fernandes will miss Portugal’s Nations League match against Norway in Oslo on Sunday after Jorge Jesus confirmed the Manchester United captain is managing an injury issue that requires treatment and recovery.
What changed for Portugal
Fernandes was absent from Portugal’s final training session before the trip to Ullevaal Stadion, having come off at the end of Thursday’s 1-0 win over Wales. He started that match before João Neves replaced him in the final minute.
Jesus described the problem as complicated and said it had affected Fernandes’ performance against Wales. The midfielder had arrived in the squad carrying the issue from Manchester United, where he had continued to play through pain in each of his previous three appearances for Michael Carrick’s side.
The Portugal coach said Fernandes needs time for medical work and rest rather than another immediate appearance. He and the player have agreed not to take a risk against Norway, with the priority being to avoid turning the concern into a longer absence.
Competition context
Portugal are seeking to build momentum in the Nations League group phase after edging Wales 1-0 on Thursday. Losing Fernandes removes a player who has been a regular for both club and country, as well as a key creative presence in the side.
Jesus had selected from the players available for the Wales match, but Fernandes’ withdrawal late in the game underlined the extent to which he had been playing while restricted by discomfort.
- Portugal beat Wales 1-0 on Thursday.
- Fernandes began that match and was replaced by João Neves in the final minute.
- He will not feature against Norway at Ullevaal Stadion on Sunday.
What is scheduled next
Portugal face Norway in Oslo on Sunday without Fernandes. The plan is for the midfielder to use the intervening days for treatment and recovery, with a return to contention targeted for Portugal’s match against Denmark next Thursday.
Manchester United will also monitor his condition closely after Fernandes revealed he had been playing through the injury during the club’s recent congested run of fixtures.
