Bruno Fernandes returns to Manchester and will not play in Portugal’s match vs Norway

Bruno Fernandes will not travel with Portugal for tonight’s Nations League fixture against Norway after returning to Manchester because of a reported injury.

The Portuguese squad faces Norway this evening at 20:45, but Fernandes left the national team campus on 27.09.2026 and did not join the delegation for the trip. Instead, he went straight back to Manchester so his injury — described as complicated — can receive proper assessment and treatment.

United front without their midfielder

Portugal must cope without one of their key midfielders, adding a setback to their Nations League campaign. Both Norway and Portugal enter the match with three points each, having each won their opening group games against Denmark and Wales respectively.

The decision to send Fernandes back to Manchester came before the team boarded for Norway, and the coaching staff will announce the final matchday squad without him. The national team will still attempt to secure a positive result on the road despite the absence of the Manchester-based star.

Sources note the injury was judged serious enough to require immediate return for specialist care in Manchester rather than remaining in the Portugal camp.

Photo: press material from the event