Portugal are set to appoint Jorge Jesus as their new national team head coach following their disappointing exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
According to AFP, the Portuguese Football Federation has reached a full agreement with the 71-year-old coach to replace Roberto Martinez, whose tenure ended after Portugal’s 1-0 defeat to Spain in the Round of 16.
Jesus is expected to be officially unveiled on Friday during a press conference at the federation’s headquarters near Lisbon. The briefing is scheduled for 2:00 p.m. GMT.
The appointment comes just five days after Portugal’s World Cup campaign ended in frustration. The Selecao had entered the tournament with a strong squad and high expectations, but their attack failed to deliver against Spain in a narrow knockout defeat.
Jesus is set to sign a four-year contract, keeping him in charge until the 2030 FIFA World Cup. That tournament will carry extra importance for Portugal, who will co-host it alongside Spain and Morocco.
The veteran coach brings vast experience to the role. In Portugal, he has managed some of the country’s biggest clubs, including Benfica and Sporting CP.
His coaching career has also taken him abroad, with spells at Flamengo in Brazil, Fenerbahce in Turkey, and Saudi Arabian clubs Al Hilal and Al Nassr.
Jesus now takes over a national team that remains rich in talent but is searching for direction after another painful major tournament exit.
Martinez had been in charge since 2023 and guided Portugal to the UEFA Nations League title in 2025. However, the World Cup defeat to Spain placed fresh scrutiny on his leadership, especially after Portugal struggled to get the best out of their attacking players.
For Jesus, the task is clear. He must rebuild confidence, sharpen Portugal’s identity and prepare the team for a cycle that ends with a home World Cup in 2030.
Portugal still have the quality to compete at the highest level. The challenge now is turning that quality into a side capable of delivering when the pressure is at its highest.
