World Cup 2026: Roberto Martínez announces his departure from Portugal

06.07.26 FT World Cup

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Portugal’s elimination in the quarter-finals of the 2026 World Cup at the hands of Spain signaled the end of an era for Roberto Martínez. Just minutes after the match, the Spanish manager confirmed that he would be stepping down as head coach.

Having arrived with the ambition of leading the Seleção to global glory, Martínez believes his mission has now come to an end:

I came here to win the World Cup. Since we didn’t achieve that, it’s time to hand over the reins.

The coach’s contract expired at the end of the tournament. Now, the Portuguese Football Federation will have to find his successor. According to several Portuguese media outlets, Jorge Jesus is among the leading candidates to take charge of the national team.

Aliou Toundé |

Editorfr

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