Jorge Jesus succeeds Martinez as Portugal coach: reports

Portugal plans to hire Jorge Jesus to replace Roberto Martinez as head coach, according to the Portuguese newspaper A ball.

Martinez resigned after Portugal’s loss to Spain in the 2026 World Cup round. The 1-0 defeat was final only minutes later when Martinez stepped aside.

“It’s the end of the cycle,” Martinez said. «It is now important to have that again – and it is legitimate that the president chooses his national coach. I am grateful for all the support they have given me.»

To the ball reported that there was a meeting between Jesus, 71, and Pedro Proenca, president of the Portuguese Football Federation.

Jesus guided the Saudi Pro League team Al Nassr to the national title last season with a squad that included Portuguese captain Cristiano Ronaldo.

Jesus has coached Portuguese side Benfica and Sporting Lisbon and Turkish side Fenerbahce. Jesus played professionally from 1973 to 1990 before beginning his coaching career at Amora.

Published on July 9, 2026