World Cup 2026: Ndidi Says She Can’t Influence It, Names Two Players Martinez Should Have Included in Portugal Squad

Super Eagles captain Wilfred Ndidi said that Besiktas teammates Jota Silva and Tiago Djaló should have been chosen for Roberto Martínez’s Portugal squad for the 2026 World Cup.

Ndidi made the comments during media engagements at the Lagoas Park Hotel on Tuesday, ahead of Nigeria’s high‑profile friendly against the World Cup‑bound Portugal side.

Although both Silva and Djaló have played for Portugal at the international level, Martínez has omitted them from his 2026 World Cup roster.

The pair were key figures for Besiktas last season, with Silva, a winger, scoring five goals in 23 appearances, and Djaló, a centre‑back, netting two goals in 22 matches.

Ndidi praised the Portuguese players, noting their talent, work ethic, and intensity in training, but stressed that he has no influence over the selection decisions made by Portugal’s coach.

When asked if he could recommend the duo for a national team call‑up, Ndidi replied, “Regrettably, our club did not secure any titles this year, and we were unable to perform as we had hoped. I do not possess the ability to make suggestions, but these Portuguese players are exceptionally talented; they are diligent, aggressive, and put in significant effort during training.”

Djaló has not been called up to the Portugal national team since earning his first senior cap in a UEFA Nations League match against Croatia in November 2024.

Silva, meanwhile, has made two appearances for the Seleção, with his most recent match coming in a friendly against Slovenia in March 2024.