According to SportBible, Roberto Martinez is expected to step down as Portugal manager following the conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, regardless of the team’s performance. The 52-year-old’s contract is set to expire at the end of July, and reports suggest he has already decided against renewing it, opening the door for a potential return to club management.
Martinez has been at the helm of the Portuguese national team for three years, and his tenure is marked by a remarkable win percentage, the highest of any permanent manager in the nation’s history. His side was eliminated from Euro 2024 in the quarter-finals by France on penalties but secured a Nations League final victory over Spain last summer.
A World Cup quest under a departing manager
Portugal enters the upcoming World Cup as one of the favourites, boasting a star-studded squad aiming to lift the trophy for the first time in their history. The team features globally recognised talents such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes, Porto captain Diogo Costa, and Manchester City captain Bernardo Silva. Additionally, four key players are currently with European champions Paris Saint-Germain.
Speaking ahead of the tournament, Martinez acknowledged the high expectations surrounding his squad. “We’re talking about Cristiano Ronaldo. The Manchester United captain [Bruno Fernandes]. The Porto captain [Diogo Costa]. The Man City captain [Bernardo Silva]. Four important players at the European champions [Paris Saint-Germain]. That makes the Portuguese people feel good,” Martinez stated, highlighting the quality at his disposal.
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Portugal begins its World Cup campaign against DR Congo on Wednesday night, before facing Uzbekistan and Colombia in Group K. Despite the immense talent, Martinez remains grounded about the challenge ahead. “We know we’ve never won the World Cup; that tells us it’s hard,” he admitted. “We know things can change fast, that talent alone is not enough, that small details can go against you, and of course, it’s a hammer blow when you don’t succeed, but let us dream. I think we can. And that’s the attitude I want our team to have.”
Martinez’s legacy and future prospects
Martinez previously guided Belgium to a third-place finish at the 2018 World Cup, though his time with the Red Devils concluded with a group stage exit in the 2022 tournament. His impending departure from Portugal has sparked speculation about his next move.
According to talkSPORT, Martinez has already made up his mind regarding his future, with a return to club management a strong possibility. He has not ruled out a second stint in the Premier League, where he previously managed Wigan Athletic and Everton. Beyond England, Martinez is reportedly keeping his options open for various positions across Europe, and a move to another international role also remains a consideration.
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