Roberto Martínez Confirms National Team Exit: "I Want to Thank the Portuguese People"

Roberto Martínez has confirmed his departure from the Portugal national team following their 1-0 elimination by Spain in the 2026 World Cup Round of 16.

"It's certain that this is my last game for Portugal. I want to thank the Portuguese people. I'll carry this memory with me for a lifetime. The players did an incredible job; they have immense talent and showed great commitment to form a team. We've had 45 matches, achieving the best goal and points records in the national team's history. Memories of winning the Nations League and setting records. I thank the Federation and the technical staff; they worked tirelessly to support our players. I take with me an incredible memory and I thank the Portuguese people," he stated in a press conference.

When asked if he had already spoken with Pedro Proença, president of the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF), Roberto Martínez responded: "We haven't spoken, but it's the end of a cycle. It's legitimate for Mr. Pedro Proença to choose his next national coach. I want to thank the president and the Federation for all their support and for providing us with every possible condition. It's the end of a cycle. I appreciate the support. I'll take these memories with me, and I hope the Portuguese people will also cherish the memories from these three and a half years."

Roberto Martínez had held the position of national coach since January 2023, succeeding Fernando Santos after the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. The Spaniard's contract will not be renewed after Portugal's exit to Spain in the 2026 World Cup Round of 16. Under Martínez's leadership, the national team won the Nations League approximately a year ago.

Roberto Martínez's successor will be Jorge Jesus. The 71-year-old Portuguese coach is, as A BOLA understands, the FPF president's chosen candidate to kick off the cycle for Euro 2028 and the 2030 World Cup, which Portugal will co-host with Spain and Morocco. Jorge Jesus is currently a free agent after leaving Al Nassr at the end of last season. Upon the national team's return to Portugal, he will meet with Pedro Proença to finalize the terms of his contract. Roberto Martínez's tenure concludes, and Jorge Jesus's era as Portugal's new national coach is set to begin.