Jorge Jesus to Lead Portugal After Martínez Departure
Portugal is turning the page. According to Portuguese newspaper “A Bola”, Jorge Jesus will be the next head coach of the national team, stepping in immediately after Roberto Martínez’s departure in the wake of the 2026 World Cup elimination to Spain.
Fresh off his spell in Saudi Arabian football and currently a free agent, Jesus has emerged as the consensus choice inside Portuguese football circles to lead a new cycle for a squad still packed with elite talent but short on consistency on the biggest stage.
A decisive meeting between Jesus and Pedro Proença, president of the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF), is expected in the coming days, once the federation’s delegation returns from the United States. That conversation should formalize what already feels like an inevitable appointment.
Martínez bows out after late heartbreak
The change in the dugout comes on the back of a brutal exit. Portugal fell 1-0 to Spain in the round of 16, undone by a goal from midfielder Mikel Merino deep into second-half stoppage time. One lapse, one moment, and a World Cup dream was gone.
Martínez faced the media straight after the final whistle and made his position clear. His cycle was over.
“It is the end of the cycle. It is important now to have that again, and it is legitimate for the president to choose his national team coach. I am grateful for all the support they gave me,” he said, confirming his farewell and effectively clearing the way for the federation to move in a new direction.
A talented squad, a stuttering campaign
The frustration around Portugal’s World Cup run is easy to understand. This was one of the most gifted squads the country has ever taken to a major tournament, yet the campaign never truly caught fire.
In the group stage, Portugal opened with a draw against the Democratic Republic of the Congo, then produced a heavy win over Uzbekistan that hinted at their attacking potential. That surge stalled again in a goalless draw with Colombia, enough to see them through, but only in second place.
In the second round, they had to dig deep. Trailing Croatia in a fierce, physical contest, Portugal clawed their way back to turn the match around and advance, a performance that suggested resilience and hinted at a team growing into the tournament.
Then came Spain. A tight, balanced Iberian clash looked destined for extra time until Merino struck at the death, sending Spain through and Portugal home in the most painful fashion.
Now the responsibility passes to Jorge Jesus. A demanding, outspoken coach known for imposing structure and intensity, he inherits a group with quality across the pitch and a fan base expecting far more than honorable exits.
The World Cup is over. The next cycle starts with one question: can Jesus finally turn this generation’s promise into something lasting and golden?
