Martinez to step down as Portugal manager after World Cup

Roberto Martinez will step down as Portugal manager after this World Cup campaign, leaving when his contract expires at the end of July. He has decided not to renew, so his exit will come regardless of Portugal’s performance in North America. His tenure added to the nation’s trophy cabinet, with European Championship success in 2016 and UEFA Nations League wins in 2019 and 2025.

The departure appears to be a mutual decision that allows the Portuguese FA to begin searching for a high-profile successor. TalkSPORT correspondent Alex Crook said Martinez is looking to return to club management in the Premier League or at a top European side, or possibly take over another big European nation, and that the decision was made in conjunction with the FA so they can start their search.

The manager’s exit also casts a spotlight on Cristiano Ronaldo, widely expected to be playing in his final major tournament as he pursues the one trophy missing from his cabinet, the World Cup.

Portugal

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