Silva's comeback for Portugal delayed despite BVB success

The long‑awaited comeback of Fabio Silva with the Portuguese national team is further delayed, because despite his strong performances at Borussia Dortmund the 24‑year‑old striker still has to wait for his next appearance for Portugal. After his debut in November 2024, which lasted only 19 minutes, he remains on the sidelines.

Strong record at Borussia Dortmund

In his first five appearances for the BVB, that is Borussia Dortmund, Silva has already scored four goals and provided another assist. This offensive strength earned him a call‑up to the Portuguese national team.

Silva's only appearance for Portugal came on 18 November 2024 in the UEFA Nations League against Croatia. Substituted in the 71st minute, he played 19 minutes without being involved in his team's 1‑0 victory.

Almost 680 days later Silva, despite his call‑up, is still waiting for his next appearance in Portugal's red shirt. He has not received another minute of play since then.

According to the Portuguese daily A Bola, he was not selected for the squad around superstar Cristiano Ronaldo for the second time in a row. This leaves him with no chance to start in the next international match.

Thus he misses the duel against teammate Julian Ryerson, after having already had to sit out against Wales. Fellow player Bruno Fernandes will watch the match against Norway from the stands.

After the match against Norway, Portugal still have two more internationals – against Denmark and again against Norway – which give Silva further chances for a comeback in the red shirt. He hopes these appearances will enable his return.

The current season picture, photographed by Imago, shows Silva as a clear star of Borussia Dortmund, whose appearance rate and goal tally further raise expectations for his international comeback. His performances in the Bundesliga remain a strong argument for the national coaches.