Roberto Martínez: 'Portugal is growing and I am proud of the players'

Portugal's national football team coach, Roberto Martínez, stated that the squad is "growing" as the 2026 World Cup debut approaches, expressing pride in his players. The team landed in Florida, their base for the tournament's initial phase, after a send-off in Portugal.

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The group is growing and I am very proud of the players we have in Portugal. An excellent team with great human values.

"The group is growing and I am very proud of the players we have in Portugal. An excellent team with great human values," the Spanish coach told media at the airport. The Portuguese team arrived at Palm Beach International Airport shortly before 7 p.m. local time, heading to their hotel.

Martínez recalled an emotional day in Portugal, which included training at the "Ciudad del Fútbol" with children and a visit to the prime minister. Star players Cristiano Ronaldo and Bernardo Silva were among the first to disembark the plane. Portugal has chosen the affluent Palm Beach area for their pre-group stage preparations, an area known for its high net worth residents and proximity to Donald Trump's official residence.

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It was a beautiful day. Having the opportunity to train at the Ciudad del Fútbol, an open training session with many children and a visit to the prime minister. It was an emotional moment.

The team will be staying at the Four Seasons Resort Palm Beach. Martínez emphasized the importance of adapting to the local time zone to ensure optimal preparation. Portugal is in Group K of the 2026 World Cup and will face the Democratic Republic of Congo in their opening match next Wednesday, followed by games against Uzbekistan and Colombia.

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The important thing is to adapt to the time zone, try not to sleep too much. Adapt to the Miami schedule. I had time to review the match against Nigeria and prepare for the coming days.