Guardiola? Saudis Suggest Jesus' Successor Could Be... Roberto Martínez

Roberto Martínez's name is circulating in Saudi Arabia. According to the Saudi newspaper Okaz, the national team coach is a prime candidate to take over Al Nassr after the 2026 World Cup, especially as Jorge Jesus has publicly announced his departure from the club at the end of the current season.

The publication states that the Spanish coach is on a shortlist of three names identified by the Saudi champions' board to succeed the Portuguese manager, who recently led the Riyadh-based club to a league title. The same source assures that, for now, there are no official negotiations between Al Nassr and Roberto Martínez, but the coach's profile is highly appealing to the club's management.

One factor favoring the Spaniard is his close relationship with Cristiano Ronaldo, forged since Martínez took charge of the national team in 2023, succeeding Fernando Santos. The Portuguese captain remains Al Nassr's biggest star and is expected to have significant influence in the selection of the next coach.

Roberto Martínez's contract with the Portuguese Football Federation expires precisely after the 2026 World Cup, further fueling speculation about a potential move to Saudi football.

In addition to the Portuguese national team coach, Al Nassr has also reportedly sounded out Pep Guardiola, who is set to leave Manchester City. The Catalan's agent, Josep Maria Orobitg, confirmed exploratory contacts, though without any concrete progress at this stage.