Ruben Neves is confident that Cristiano Ronaldo-less Portugal can grab three more Nations League points against Switzerland even without the 'best player in the world'. Ronaldo will not travel to Geneva on Sunday afternoon for the last of four international fixtures this month.
Portugal are sitting pretty in Group A2 after drawing their opener with Spain and following up that result with two wins against Switzerland and Czech Republic. Ronaldo was made to settle for a place on the bench against Spain as the national team attempt to manage his workload after a gruelling season for Manchester United.
The 37-year-old did come off the bench in Seville, though, while he also played 90 minutes against Switzerland and Czech Republic; scoring twice and providing an assist against the Swiss. With yet another quick turnaround, though, he has been granted some much-needed rest before United return for pre-season.
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Joao Moutinho and Raphael Guerreiro did not travel with the Portugal team to Geneva, either. However, it is that man Ronaldo who, naturally, took centre stage with his absence.
Speaking about Ronaldo during his pre-match interview, Neves - who has been linked with a transfer from Wolves to United this summer - said: "Obviously, Cristiano is the best player in the world and it's always good to play with him. But I'm sure we're prepared to help bring home another three points."
Outlining the reason Ronaldo will miss the Switzerland match, Portugal manager Fernando Santos said: "There are no physical problems. It is normal management. It wouldn't make sense to have 26 players travelling if we can only play 23. It fell to these players to miss out, that's all."
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