Nuno Mendes 

All-time FIFA World Cup appearances: 5

All-time FIFA World Cup goals: 1

FIFA World Cup 2026 appearances: 4

FIFA World Cup 2026 goals: 1

International appearances: 48

International goals: 2

International debut: 24 March 2021 vs Azerbaijan, FIFA World Cup qualifying 2022

Club: Paris Saint-Germain (FRA)

*data correct up to the conclusion of the FIFA World Cup 2026

In a star-studded squad, particularly in attack, one of the key parts of Portugal’s offensive arsenal comes at left-back in the form of Paris Saint-Germain defender Nuno Mendes. Since the appointment of Luis Enrique at the Parc des Princes, Mendes has become an essential part of PSG’s all-conquering side that have won back-to-back UEFA Champions League trophies. Roberto Martinez has managed his minutes carefully in the build up to FIFA World Cup 2026 and he will again be key flying down the left-hand side to provide ammunition for captain Cristiano Ronaldo up-front, perhaps as the best player in his position across all of world football.