Roberto Martinez to step down as Portugal manager following the 2026 World Cup

Roberto Martinez has decided to leave his position as manager of the Portuguese national team upon the conclusion of his contract following the 2026 World Cup. The 52-year-old coach, who has led Portugal since January 2023, confirmed he will not renew his contract regardless of the tournament's outcome. Reports suggest he may be in advanced talks with the Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr, though a return to the Premier League remains a possibility. Meanwhile, the Portuguese Football Federation is compiling a shortlist of potential successors. Candidates identified by reports include Abel Ferreira, Sergio Conceicao, and Jorge Jesus. While some sources link Martinez to Al Nassr, others emphasize that the federation is actively planning for the post-Cristiano Ronaldo era.