From Monaco to Portugal! Flávio Nazinho Earns First Senior Call-Up

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Flávio Nazinho Earns His First Portugal Call-Up

Flávio Nazinho is enjoying one of the biggest moments of his young career. The 23-year-old left-back from AS Monaco has received his first senior Portugal call-up, just months after arriving in French football and establishing himself as a promising talent in Ligue 1.

The Principality club announced on Monday, November 9, that the defender will join Jorge Jesus' squad for the upcoming UEFA Nations League fixtures against Denmark and Wales. It represents a major milestone for a player who previously represented Portugal at various youth levels but had never been selected for the senior national team.

His opportunity follows an impressive start in France. Nazinho has recorded one goal and two assists in 14 appearances for Monaco since joining during the summer, demonstrating how quickly he has adapted to the demands of French football.

From Scoring Against PSG to Fulfilling a Dream

One of Nazinho's standout moments in Ligue 1 came on September 4, when he scored his first Monaco goal in a 2-1 victory over Paris Saint-Germain.

The left-back arrived in the penalty area to score his team's second goal at the Parc des Princes, delivering an important contribution against one of France's strongest opponents.

A product of Sporting CP's academy, Nazinho continued his development at Belgian club Cercle Brugge before joining Monaco for approximately €5 million. Under Filipe Luís, he has become an important option on the left side of the team's defense.

Injury Opens the Door to Portugal

Nazinho's inclusion also comes amid injury concerns within the Portuguese national team. Nuno Tavares, the Lazio defender, was ruled out after suffering muscular discomfort during his club's match against Napoli.

With Tavares unavailable, Jorge Jesus turned to Nazinho to reinforce the left flank. The Portugal coach has also been forced to make other adjustments following injuries to Rafael Leão and Tomás Araújo.

For the Monaco defender, the opportunity comes after previously expressing his ambition to represent Portugal at the highest level. He will now have the chance to share the dressing room with established internationals such as Bernardo Silva, another player who previously represented Monaco.

Nazinho Hopes to Make His Portugal Debut

Portugal will conclude their UEFA Nations League group-stage campaign with matches against Denmark on November 14 and Wales on November 17.

Jorge Jesus' side lead their group with 12 points from a possible 12 and have already secured qualification for the quarterfinals. A draw in either remaining fixture would be enough to guarantee first place.

For Nazinho, however, the main objective is to earn his first minutes at senior international level. His performances at Monaco have already helped him achieve the dream of receiving a Portugal call-up. Now, he has an opportunity to show he belongs among the country's best players.

Key Facts Behind Flávio Nazinho's Rise

• First senior call-up: Jorge Jesus has selected the 23-year-old for Portugal's national team.
• Monaco performances: one goal and two assists in 14 appearances this season.
• International opportunity: Nazinho could make his debut against Denmark or Wales in the UEFA Nations League.

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