With crucial games on the horizon for Manchester City, Pep Guardiola must be pleased that two of his key players were sent home early from international duty.
16 of City’s squad have met with their national teams for the first international break of 2024, but thankfully, Bernardo Silva and Ruben Dias will be returning early.
After the game against Sweden on Thursday, Portugal manager Roberto Martinez revealed that he decided to send eight players, including Silva and Dias, home early and not using them in Tuesday’s match vs Slovenia as he aims to test different players ahead of Euro 2024.
Bernardo Silva (2 assists), Matheus Nunes (goal) and Ruben Dias were all in action on Thursday night as they helped Portugal defeat Sweden 5-2 in a friendly.
“We have eight arriving for the second game,” Martinez said, via O Jogo. “It’s important to work on different concepts.
“Bernardo [Silva], Ruben Dias, [Joao] Palhinha, [Nelson] Semedo, Toti [Gomes], Rafael Leão, Bruno Fernandes and Goncalo Ramos are leaving.
“They are I hope that high-level players arrive, with hunger and energy.”
Manchester City are next in action a week on Sunday, hosting Arsenal at the Etihad in a crucial Premier League clash.
