Portugal sit Bruno Fernandes out of Norway Nations League clash

Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has been ruled out of Portugal’s Nations League clash with Norway on Sunday, after picking up an injury during the side’s win over Wales, head coach Jorge Jesus confirmed. The midfielder has been playing through the problem for weeks, but Portugal will manage his recovery rather than risk further damage.

Fernandes featured for almost the entire win over Wales, but Portugal will not risk him on Sunday as they manage his recovery. Jesus said the decision reflects the player’s recent discomfort.

Jesus explains the injury

“The Fernandes case involves treatment and recovery time. He’s coming off an injury at United, and he told me he’s been playing with that pain for the last three games, which is hindering him,” Jesus said.

Jesus added that the midfielder was not at his best against Wales because of the issue, prompting the decision to sit him out. “I prefer not to risk it in this game so he’s fully fit for the Denmark match,” he explained.

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Portugal’s upcoming fixtures

Portugal’s next assignment is the Nations League meeting with Denmark on 1 October, a game Jesus has earmarked for Fernandes’ return. The side then faces Norway again on 4 October to close the international window.

Fernandes is not expected to miss Manchester United fixtures unless the problem worsens, Jesus said. The plan is to manage his workload through the international break rather than treat it as a long‑term concern.

Manchester United will not see the midfielder back until their Premier League clash with Tottenham Hotspur on 10 October. The club will monitor his recovery throughout the Nations League period.

Any setback in Portugal’s remaining matches could directly affect United’s preparation for that Tottenham game, given Fernandes’ central role for both teams.