Join on WhatsApp
Join on Telegram
Rabat – Portugal is expected to appoint Jorge Jesus as its new head coach after Roberto Martínez confirmed his departure following the team’s elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
According to Portuguese newspaper A Bola, the 71-year-old coach is the leading candidate to take charge of the national team. Portuguese Football Federation president Pedro Proença is expected to meet with Jesus to finalize the agreement, with an official announcement likely after the squad returns to Portugal.
Martínez announced his exit shortly after Portugal’s 1-0 defeat to Spain in the Round of 16.
“It is true. This was my last match with the Portugal national team,” the Spanish coach said after the game.
Spain ends Portugal’s World Cup run
Portugal’s World Cup campaign came to an end after a 1-0 loss to Spain in the Round of 16. Despite creating chances, Portugal failed to find an equalizer as Spain booked their place in the quarter-finals, ending their Iberian rivals’ hopes of lifting the trophy.
During Martinez’s post-match press conference, he thanked the Portuguese supporters for their backing throughout his time in charge.
“It has been an incredible period and a pride that I cannot describe. The support and energy from the Portuguese people will stay with me forever,” he said.
The 52-year-old also commended his players, highlighting their commitment and team spirit.
“It is easy to have talented players in a national team, but building a real team is what matters. Our players showed great commitment, and that is why we achieved so much together.”
Martinez added that Portugal played 45 matches under his leadership, recording the best goalscoring and points tally in the national team’s history. He also pointed to winning the UEFA Nations League as one of the highlights of his spell in charge.
Jesus, who most recently coached Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia, is expected to lead Portugal into UEFA Euro 2028 and the 2030 FIFA World Cup, which will be co-hosted by Morocco, Portugal, and Spain.
