Cristiano Ronaldo and three Premier League stars have been allowed to leave the Portugal squad ahead of Monday’s Croatia clash.
The 2016 European Champions had already secured top spot in their UEFA Nations League group following Friday’s emphatic 5-1 victory over Poland. Ronaldo netted a brace, while Bruno Fernandes also found the back of the net.
With qualification sealed, manager Roberto Martinez has released four key players – Ronaldo, Pedro Neto, Bernardo Silva, and Bruno Fernandes – from the squad.
Martinez aims to experiment with new talent and give youth players valuable game time in the upcoming dead-rubber match.
This decision comes as a significant boost for Premier League giants Manchester City, Chelsea, and Manchester United, as well as Al-Nassr, who will now welcome back their influential players.
