Portugal's coach, Roberto Martínez, revealed the list of 27 footballers who will represent the Portuguese team in the 2026 World Cup. Paulinho, Toluca's striker, was not included in the list.

What happened to Paulinho?

The Portuguese striker had been considered in the previous FIFA date and had participated in the friendly match between Mexico and Portugal.

Why is it important for Toluca?

Paulinho's absence from the list of call-ups can be a blow to Toluca, which is seeking to conquer another title in the Liga MX. The top scorer in the international tournament is Paulinho.

What's next?

Toluca will play the final of the CONCACAF Champions Cup against Tigres UANL on May 30. The team's current situation is: | Stat | Value | | --- | --- | | League position | 5th in Liga MX | | Points | 27 pts | | Results | 7W-6D-1L from 14 games | | Last result | CF Pachuca 2-0 Toluca (2026-05-10) | | Next match | vs Seattle Sounders (at home, 2026-08-06) | Andrés Lillini, Toluca's coach, will have to find a way to replace Paulinho in the attack. Cristiano Ronaldo, Vitinha, and Bruno Fernandes are some of the players who were included in Portugal's list of call-ups.