Roberto Martinez has stepped down as Portugal head coach following the nation’s 1-0 World Cup defeat to Spain, saying it no longer made sense to remain in charge after failing to achieve his ultimate goal.
Roberto Martinez has resigned as Portugal head coach following his side’s 1-0 defeat to Spain in the FIFA World Cup Round of 16, bringing his three-year spell in charge of the national team to an immediate end.
The Spaniard confirmed his departure shortly after Monday’s defeat, explaining that he had accepted the role with one objective in mind — to win the World Cup. Having fallen short of that ambition, Martinez believes it is the right time for Portugal to move in a new direction.
🚨🇵🇹 BREAKING: Roberto Martinez LEAVES Portugal head coach job, it’s over. 👋🏼
Portuguese Federation to appoint new head coach next. pic.twitter.com/zSdJNzTQ74
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 6, 2026
“I came to Portugal to win the World Cup, and I think that without winning, it doesn’t make sense to continue,” Martinez said after the match. “The board and the president have the chance to choose their manager. My contract ends today, there’s not much more to say.”
Portugal’s campaign came to an end after a narrow defeat to their Iberian rivals, with Martinez’s decision to keep 41-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo on the pitch for the full 90 minutes attracting criticism.
Despite the disappointing result, the former Belgium boss rejected suggestions that the tournament should be viewed as a failure.
“We didn’t fail, we lost a game against a favourite team,” Martinez insisted. “We played face to face and showed incredible talent. We won the Nations League on penalties, and at this level it’s all about the fine margins between the best teams.”
The 51-year-old also praised the commitment of his squad throughout the competition, arguing that their effort and determination should not be overlooked despite the early exit.
“Failing is not trying to win, and we tried until the last minute. We gave everything, the players were incredible and exemplary. That’s what makes you a winner,” he said. “I hope Portugal’s fans can remember everything that the coaching staff and I did.”
Martinez was appointed Portugal manager in 2023 after leaving Belgium and enjoyed considerable success during his tenure. He guided the Seleção to UEFA Nations League glory last summer and oversaw an impressive record of 32 victories in 45 matches.
🚨 IT’S DONE! Jorge Jesus will be the new head coach of Portugal. He will replace Roberto Martinez. ✍️🇵🇹
(Source: A Bola) pic.twitter.com/1yEp3ZBg4y
— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) July 7, 2026
