The Portugal national team will soon begin searching for a new head coach after Roberto Martinez officially announced his departure from the position following their elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Portugal entered the tournament with high expectations after producing an impressive qualifying campaign. With a squad filled with world-class talent and a strong generation of players, Selecao das Quinas were widely considered one of the teams capable of challenging for the World Cup trophy.
However, their journey in North America came to an unexpected end in the Round of 16. Portugal were eliminated after suffering a narrow 0-1 defeat against Spain in Dallas, with Mikel Merino scoring a late goal to send their Iberian rivals through to the next stage.
Following the disappointing exit, Roberto Martinez accepted full responsibility for the result and confirmed that he would step down as Portugal’s head coach.
Official Confirmation of Martinez’s Departure
Roberto Martinez’s resignation was officially confirmed by the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF).
Through an official statement, the federation revealed that it had accepted Martinez’s decision to leave his role and would immediately begin the process of moving forward with a new leadership plan for the national team.
Martinez also confirmed the decision himself after the match, stating that his encounter against Spain was his final game in charge of Portugal.
“It is true, this was my last match with the Portugal national team,” Martinez said in an official statement released by the federation.
The announcement marked the end of a chapter that began when Martinez was appointed Portugal manager in 2023, following his previous spell as head coach of Belgium.
Martinez Thanks Portugal Supporters
After confirming his departure, Martinez shared emotional messages for the people who supported him throughout his time with the national team.
The Spanish coach expressed his gratitude toward Portuguese supporters, describing his period in charge as one of the most meaningful experiences of his career.
“I want to thank the people of Portugal because this has been an incredible period of my life. It is a source of pride that is difficult to express in words.”
“The passion, energy, and support from the fans and everyone across the country have been truly extraordinary. Thank you for everything. I will carry these memories with me for the rest of my life.”
Martinez also praised the Portugal squad, highlighting not only their individual quality but also their commitment to working together as a team.
“I also want to thank the players for their hard work. They have incredible talent. But what matters most is not only their individual ability, it is their commitment to becoming a team.”
Building a Team Was the Biggest Challenge
During his farewell message, Martinez explained that coaching a national team filled with elite players was not the most difficult part of his job.
Portugal have always possessed some of the best footballers in the world, but Martinez believed the true challenge was transforming those individuals into a united and competitive collective.
“Having great players in the national team is easy because they are the best in their country. The most important thing is how you build a team.”
Under Martinez, Portugal featured a talented squad including players such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva, Rafael Leao, and several emerging young stars.
Despite the disappointment at the 2026 World Cup, Martinez believed the team had developed a strong identity and achieved several important milestones during his tenure.
Martinez Reflects on His Portugal Achievements
During his time managing Portugal, Roberto Martinez oversaw 45 matches, a record he described as one of the best statistical periods in the history of the national team.
The coach credited that achievement entirely to the dedication and professionalism of his players.
“These are 45 matches with the best record in Portugal’s history. Everything came from the commitment of the players.”
Martinez also highlighted some of the most memorable moments of his tenure, including winning the UEFA Nations League, breaking several national team records, and experiencing unforgettable victories together with the squad.
“I will always remember winning the UEFA Nations League, breaking different records, and all the beautiful moments we shared together.”
Portugal Enter a New Era After Martinez Exit
Although Roberto Martinez’s departure comes after a disappointing World Cup elimination, his time with Portugal produced both positive results and high expectations for the future.
The national team remains filled with exceptional talent and has one of the deepest squads in international football. The next manager will inherit a group capable of competing for major trophies but will also face the challenge of maintaining team unity and maximizing the potential of a golden generation.
For now, Portugal must focus on finding the right successor to guide the team into its next chapter.
Roberto Martinez leaves behind a legacy of strong performances, record-breaking statistics, and memorable achievements. However, after the World Cup 2026 disappointment, both sides will now look toward a new beginning as Portugal prepares for the future.
ALSO READ :
