Portugal appoints Jorge Jesus as the new head coach

Portugal announced Jorge Jesus as the new head coach on Friday, days after Roberto Martinez stepped down after the expiration of his contract and the team's disappointing 2026 World Cup campaign.

Martinez said he was leaving his role after Spain beat his side 1-0 in the World Cup Round of 16 on Monday, calling the defeat the end of his spell with the team.

The Spaniard said he took charge as Portugal coach with an ambition to win the World Cup and felt there was no reason to continue after failing to achieve that target.

Martinez added that his contract expired on Monday and the Portuguese Football Federation now had the opportunity to appoint a new coach.

Martinez had been in charge of the Portuguese team since 2023, winning the Nations League with them in June 2025.

Jesus, 71, spent the majority of his coaching career in Portugal, including spells with Benfica and Sporting.

The Portuguese national team wrote on X on Friday that "A new journey begins today. Welcome to the National Team, Mister Jorge Jesus."

Jorge Jesus, who recently helped Saudi club Al-Nassr to the Saudi Pro League title in the 2025-26 season, left his job there in May and will coach Portugal through the 2030 World Cup, to be co-hosted by Portugal, Spain, and Morocco.

Cristiano Ronaldo had a brilliant last season under Jesus, scoring 29 goals in 33 appearances.

Ronaldo, 41, confirmed this was his last World Cup but did not make a decision on his international retirement.

Jesus has also coached clubs like Lisbon and Turkish side Fenerbahce, and Saudi club Al-Hilal. He played professionally from 1973-90 before beginning his coaching career with Amora.