Roberto Martinez will step down as Portugal head coach after the 2026 FIFA World Cup, regardless of the team’s performance in the tournament, multiple media reports suggest.
The reports say the 52-year-old Spaniard has decided not to renew his contract, which expires at the end of the competition. He took charge of the national team in January 2023.
During his time with Portugal, Martinez has recorded the country’s best-ever win rate of around 70 percent across more than 40 matches. He also guided the team to a second UEFA Nations League title in 2025.
The news comes as Portugal prepares for its opening Group K match against DR Congo in Houston on Wednesday. The squad enters the tournament among the favorites, featuring stars such as Cristiano Ronaldo.
Both Martinez and the Portuguese Football Federation are said to be fully aligned on focusing entirely on the World Cup campaign before addressing his future. No official confirmation has yet been issued by either party.
Speculation has already begun about potential successors, with reports linking Jose Mourinho to the role once it becomes vacant. However, it remains unlikely that Mourinho will step down at Real Madrid so soon, as he prepares to begin his return to Madrid in July.
Martinez’s departure will mark the end of a successful spell that has included strong attacking displays and consistent results. He is understood to be open to a return to club management, possibly in the Premier League.
