Jorge Jesus has begun his tenure as Portugal manager by identifying five players who could gain prominence under his project. The coach, who makes his official debut against Wales on Wednesday, aims to create a completely new playing identity, opening doors for new key figures.

The national team currently sits 2nd in World Cup qualifying with 5 points from 3 games. The next challenge, precisely against Wales, is a key moment for Jesus to start implementing his ideas. The last result, a 1-0 defeat to Spain on July 6th, shows the need for a new direction. Fans can follow the full qualifying schedule on our fixtures page.

Palhinha and Félix highlighted

Among the highlighted names is midfielder Palhinha, who hasn't played for the national team in a year and was left out of the last World Cup. Jorge Jesus does not see him as an automatic starter, but as a valid option in a midfield that will feature Vitinha, João Neves and Bruno Fernandes. His experience in the Premier League and Bundesliga is an asset.

João Félix is viewed by Jesus as a second striker with the potential to evolve into a first-choice forward. The manager plans to use a two-striker system, a formation that could benefit Félix as Cristiano Ronaldo approaches the end of his career. "We have a charismatic, demanding manager, accustomed to winning," Félix himself said about the new leadership.

Trust in Tavares and Inácio

In defence, Nuno Tavares received a full vote of confidence. Jesus stated that the Lazio full-back will be the national team's right-back, without any doubt. "He has many qualities and there aren't many full-backs in the world with his profile," said the coach, who launched Tavares' career at Sporting in the 2017/18 season.

Gonçalo Inácio, the left-footed centre-back, is another player in whom Jesus places great trust. The manager believes the player can improve tactically and fit perfectly into a back four, playing a significant role, the so-called 'double'.

Leão's versatility

Rafael Leão, the 27-year-old forward who moved from Milan to Galatasaray, is seen as a versatile option. Jesus considers he can act both as a winger and a striker, with his specific role dependent on his development in the coming months.

The philosophy of the new cycle is well defined. "We are going to create an identity and a style of play that has nothing to do with the idea the national team had," assured Jorge Jesus. This radical change in mentality and tactics is the starting point for a project that aims to restore a winning identity to Portugal. The team's recent form reads 2 wins, 2 draws and 1 defeat (LWDWD), with 6 goals scored and only 1 conceded. The full squad list and injury news are available on our squad page. The first test of this new era comes on September 24th, at the Estádio do Dragão, against Wales.

This story first appeared at dazn.com