Portugal squad depth: Martinez says all 26 players are ready for 2026 challenge

Portugal squad depth will be crucial as head coach Roberto Martinez insists every member of his 26-man squad is fit and prepared to contribute at the 2026 tournament. The Portuguese coach said every player can maintain the team’s tactical and technical standards whenever called upon.

Portugal started their campaign with a 1-1 draw against DR Congo. However, they responded emphatically by beating Uzbekistan 5-0, with captain Cristiano Ronaldo scoring twice to lead the impressive victory.

Speaking before Portugal’s final Group K match against Colombia on June 28, Martinez stressed that his squad has no substitutes because every player is ready to make an impact.

“Our goal is to ensure everyone is ready,” Martinez said, according to O Jogo. “We can make three substitutions at half-time without losing tactical or technical quality. Those on the bench are prepared to influence the game.”

Moreover, Martinez explained that every player contributes during training, helping the coaching staff fine-tune the team’s tactical approach ahead of the knockout rounds.

A victory over Colombia would secure Portugal top spot in Group K. Meanwhile, Ronaldo will again carry high expectations after becoming the only player to score in six different editions of the tournament.

With confidence growing after their convincing win over Uzbekistan, Portugal squad depth could become one of the team’s biggest strengths as they pursue the 2026 title. Martinez believes every player is capable of making the difference when it matters most, reinforcing the value of Portugal squad depth.