Roberto Martínez is reportedly set to leave his role as Portugal manager after the 2026 World Cup, no matter how far Cristiano Ronaldo and his team-mates go in the tournament.
According to reports, the Spanish coach has decided not to renew his contract, which is due to expire after the World Cup. That means Portugal could be preparing for the end of an era even before their campaign has properly begun.
Martínez took charge of Portugal in 2023 after six years with Belgium. His arrival came at a delicate time, with the national team trying to move forward after the Fernando Santos era while still managing the final years of Cristiano Ronaldo’s international career.
Since then, Martínez has overseen a strong period for Portugal. The team have remained packed with elite talent, from Ronaldo and Bruno Fernandes to Bernardo Silva, Vitinha, João Neves, Diogo Costa and Rafael Leão. Portugal also won the Nations League under his leadership, strengthening belief that this squad can challenge seriously for the World Cup.
But the latest reports suggest the tournament will be Martínez’s final mission with the Seleção. Even if Portugal go deep — or produce a historic triumph — the coach is expected to walk away once the competition ends.
His next move is already becoming a major talking point. Martínez is said to be open to returning to the Premier League, where he previously managed Swansea City, Wigan Athletic and Everton. A return to club football could appeal after years in international management, but he has not ruled out taking charge of another national team either.
For Portugal, the timing is dramatic. The team are chasing the biggest prize in football, yet their manager’s future now appears to be hanging over the campaign.
If this really is Martínez’s farewell, the pressure becomes even bigger. Portugal are not only chasing World Cup glory — they may also be trying to deliver the perfect goodbye for their coach.
