Ruben Dias follows individual fitness plan as Portugal manage Manchester City star

Portugal appear to be taking a cautious approach with Ruben Dias after the Manchester City defender followed an individual fitness programme during the national team's latest World Cup training session.

The centre-back was the only member of Roberto Martinez's squad not to train fully with the main group as Portugal continued preparations for their opening match against DR Congo on 17 June.

While the sight of Dias working separately inevitably attracted attention, reports from Portugal indicate there is currently little concern regarding his availability for the tournament opener.

According to Portuguese newspaper O Jogo, Dias is being closely monitored by the national team's medical department as Portugal adjust to conditions in the United States.

The squad's first training session since arriving lasted around an hour and took place in temperatures exceeding 32°C, with the heat index reportedly approaching 36°C.

Rather than risking unnecessary strain on one of their most important players, Portugal appear to have opted for a tailored programme designed to manage workload ahead of the start of the competition.

Crucially, reports suggest the expectation remains that Dias will be fully available when Portugal begin their World Cup campaign.

Further reports from Record have added to the sense of optimism surrounding the defender's condition.

Dias has remained actively involved in team activities despite not participating in every aspect of training.

The Manchester City star has reportedly been seen carrying out muscle activation work at Portugal's team hotel before later joining teammates during recovery activities on Palm Beach.

Those details are significant because they suggest the defender is still integrated into the squad's daily preparations rather than undergoing treatment for a serious issue.

Workload management has become increasingly common, particularly for players arriving after long club campaigns.

Portugal will continue their preparations ahead of their World Cup opener against DR Congo on 17 June. Attention will remain on Dias over the coming days, but all indications suggest he is progressing as planned.

If he rejoins full training before the match, concerns surrounding his fitness are likely to disappear entirely. For now, Portugal appear focused on ensuring one of their most important players reaches the tournament in peak condition rather than taking any unnecessary risks.

Should Portugal rest Ruben Dias until the opener, or would you prefer to see him return to full training immediately?