Managerial bombshell rocks Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal ahead of World Cup 2026 opener

17.06.26 FT World Cup

Portugal

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DR Congo

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Roberto Martinez will shock fans by stepping down as Portugal's head coach following World Cup 2026 in North America to seek new challenges.

According to a breaking report from British radio station TalkSport, the Spanish tactician has thoroughly evaluated his future and made a definitive call. He will not sign a contract extension with the Portuguese football federation once the current World Cup concludes.

The broadcast firmly states that even if he guides the team to their first-ever World Cup triumph this summer, his mind is already made up and his departure is inevitable.

Opening The campaign In Houston

This massive news surfaces just as the squad finalizes preparations for their Group K opener. The European heavyweights are scheduled to face the Democratic Republic of Congo this Thursday in Houston, Texas.

Managing the dressing room atmosphere will now be paramount. The players must absorb this revelation quickly and prevent the coaching transition from becoming a distraction on the pitch.

Eyeing a Premier League comeback

Martinez is actively weighing his next career move, heavily considering a return to the English Premier League alongside other international projects.

He boasts a respected and well-documented resume in England. Football purists fondly remember his time managing Wigan Athletic where he orchestrated a stunning FA Cup victory in 2013, before steering Everton to a highly impressive fifth-place league finish in 2014.

A statistical powerhouse

Since taking the reins in 2023, the manager has transformed his squad into a ruthless winning machine blending technical mastery with tactical discipline.

His tenure highlights include capturing UEFA Nations League 2025 title following a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Spain. Across his 40 matches in charge, Martinez has engineered a phenomenal record:

• 30 Victories: Highlighting a dominant, possession-based attacking philosophy.
• 4 Draws: Showcasing resilience against deep defensive blocks.
• 6 Defeats: A remarkably low loss rate on the unforgiving international stage.

With legendary forward Cristiano Ronaldo heavily tipped to be playing his final World Cup, Martinez’s impending departure turns this North American campaign into a definitive "Last Dance".

Khaled Hegazy |

Editorar, en

Journaliste sportif spécialisé dans la couverture du football et la création de contenu numérique, alliant expérience éditoriale et expertise des médias sociaux.

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