Portugal Bets on Jorge Jesus, a Coach of Cristiano Ronaldo, After Losing in the FIFA World Cup 2026

After Roberto Martínez's departure, the FPF has reportedly chosen Jorge Jesus as the new coach.

Portugal and Martínez out

The Portuguese national team would already have its new coach defined following Roberto Martínez's departure. The Catalan coach submitted his resignation after the elimination against Spain in the 2026 World Cup, closing a three-year cycle in which he had decided not to renew his contract. His departure quickly opened the debate in the neighboring country about who should take the reins, Jorge Jesus, the new coach of Portugal, a coach known to Cristiano.

The Catalan coach resigned after the elimination against Spain in the 2026 World Cup, closing a three-year cycle in which he decided not to renew his contract. His departure quickly opened the debate in the neighboring country about who should take the reins of a team preparing for Euro 2028 and the 2030 World Cup.

The possible candidate

According to the Portuguese press, the name that emerged strongly was Jorge Jesus. At 71 years old, the experienced coach is currently without a club, but his track record speaks for itself; he has managed major teams such as Al-Hilal, Benfica, Fenerbahçe, Flamengo, Sporting Portugal, and SC Braga. Additionally, in the last season, he won the Saudi Professional League with Al-Nassr, where he coincided with Cristiano Ronaldo, a connection that is now crucial for his arrival at the national team.

The relationship with Cristiano Ronaldo

The close relationship with the Portuguese captain is seen as a determining factor. Ronaldo, at 41 years old, remains the spiritual and football leader of the team, and having a coach who knows him firsthand can facilitate the transition to a new cycle. According to the newspaper A Bola, the president of the Portuguese Football Federation, Pedro Proença, considers Jesus the chosen one to face the upcoming international challenges.

It is expected that in the coming days, Jorge Jesus will meet with Proença to define the terms of his incorporation. The bet is clear, to give continuity to a project that keeps Portugal in the elite of world football, supported by the experience of a coach who has managed high-demand locker rooms and has the trust of Cristiano Ronaldo.