He told boss Roberto Martinez that partner Claudia Pinto was due to give birth imminently.

On Wednesday the defender posted: “Welcome to the world Clara. 15.11.2023” — with a picture of the couple clasping the tot’s hand.

United’s official Instagram and players Sergio Reguilon and Sofyan Amrabat congratulated the new family — as did ex-Red Devils David de Gea and Juan Mata, plus Portugal and Man City defender Ruben Dias.

Dalot and Pinto started dating in 2020 and got engaged in March.

They announced they were expecting in July.

Dalot was widely expected to start both Euro 2024 qualifiers off the back of a strong start to the season at club level, having played 16 times in all competitions to date.

But after quitting his country’s training camp, a Portugal statement said: “Joao Mario will make his debut in a national team call-up after being called up this afternoon to replace Diogo Dalot.

“The Manchester United defender was released from the national team’s work for personal reasons and after communication with national coach Roberto Martinez.”4Dalot withdrew from this week’s Euro qualifiers