A World Cup-bound coach enters Manchester United’s thinking

Board explore long-term option ahead of next season

Europe 01 March 2026 at 14:18

Manchester United are considering Portugal coach Roberto Martinez as they plan to appoint permanent manager for next season.

Martinez linked with Old Trafford job

Manchester United working to identify their long-term head coach for the coming season and Roberto Martinez has emerged as one of the names under discussion.

The Spanish coach is currently in charge of Portugal but reports suggest United are monitoring his situation as part of a wider plan to rebuild and return to major trophies in England & Europe.

🚨JUST IN: Manchester United telah membahas secara internal mengenai kemungkinan pelatih Timnas Portugal saat ini, Roberto Martínez untuk menjadi pelatih kepala Manchester United berikutnya.

Gimana menurut lo?

📰: @JacobsBen pic.twitter.com/kT9VeX2mXb
— United Focus Indonesia (@utdfocusid) February 27, 2026

Contract situation and World Cup timeline

Martinez is under contract with the Portuguese Football Federation until July 2026 which is after FIFA World Cup 2026 in United States, Canada and Mexico.

Because of this, any possible move would depend on decisions made after the tournament.

According to journalist Ben Jacobs speaking on The United Stand podcast, Martinez’s name is being discussed internally at United.

The report also suggested that Portugal could look at Jose Mourinho as a future option which could open the door for Martinez to return to club football.

Carrick still in charge, options remain open

For now, Michael Carrick continues his work as interim manager. His spell has included important wins against top teams keeping him in the conversation for a longer role.

However, United’s board are reviewing several candidates before making a final decision. Alongside Martinez, other coaches linked with the job include Roberto De Zerbi and Julian Nagelsmann who is currently in charge of Germany.

🚨 Roberto De Zerbi would prefer to manage Tottenham Hotspur over Manchester United next season if he gets the opportunity.

(Source: Sky Sports) pic.twitter.com/i5T6KhRbmk
— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) February 27, 2026

Martinez’s Premier League experience

Martinez is well known in England after spells with Swansea City, Wigan Athletic and Everton. His biggest success came in 2013 when he led Wigan to FA Cup win against Manchester City in the final.

That background makes him a familiar figure for Premier League fans and a realistic option for United as they look for stability and experience.