Roberto Martinez has confirmed he is stepping down as Portugal’s head coach following the country’s elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup
Martinez’s exit comes after Portugal suffered a 1-0 defeat to Spain in the Round of 16, ending his tenure, which began after the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
Announcing his departure, the Spanish coach described it as the end of a chapter and said it was the right time for the Portuguese Football Federation to appoint a new manager.
“It is the end of a cycle. It is important now to embark on a new stage; it is only right that the president should choose his own coach. I am grateful for all the support I have been given,” Martinez said.
Reports from Portuguese newspaper A Bola claim veteran coach Jorge Jesus is the leading candidate to replace Martinez.
The 71-year-old, who is currently without a club after guiding Al Nassr to the Saudi Pro League title last season, is reportedly the preferred choice of Portuguese Football Federation president Pedro Proença.
If appointed, Jorge Jesus is expected to lead Portugal into Euro 2028 and the 2030 FIFA World Cup, which Portugal will co-host.
According to the report, talks between Jorge Jesus and the federation are expected to take place once the Portuguese delegation returns home to conclude discussions.
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