Jorge Jesus is set to become Portugal’s new head coach after Roberto Martinez’s departure.
Jorge Jesus is on the verge of becoming Portugal’s new head coach after reports claimed the veteran manager has agreed to take charge of the national team following Roberto Martinez’s departure.
The Portuguese Football Federation is expected to confirm the appointment soon as it begins a new era after Portugal’s disappointing exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
🚨🇵🇹 Jorge Jesus to become new Portugal head coach, here we go! He’s accepted to take over after Roberto Martínez. 🫱🏻🫲🏼
Jorge Jesus will lead the project for Nations League, Euro 2028 and next World Cup. 🔜
He’s won Saudi Pro League title at Al Nassr this season with Cristiano. pic.twitter.com/KL3f9SXqjb
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 8, 2026
Martinez left his position after Portugal’s Round of 16 defeat to Spain, bringing an end to his tenure with the national team.
The former Belgium coach announced that it was the right time for a new direction, while the Portuguese Football Federation later confirmed that his contract had officially come to an end.
According to multiple reports, Jesus has already accepted the role and is expected to oversee Portugal’s preparations for the UEFA Nations League, Euro 2028 and the 2030 FIFA World Cup, which Portugal will co-host alongside Spain and Morocco.
The 71-year-old arrives with a wealth of experience after successful spells with clubs including Benfica, Sporting CP, Flamengo, Fenerbahce and Al Hilal.
🚨 Jorge Jesus wants former Portugal defender Pepe to join his coaching staff as one of his assistant managers when he takes charge of the national team. 🇵🇹👀
Jesus is expected to become Portugal’s next head coach and has already identified Pepe as a key part of his backroom… pic.twitter.com/PoihPoUHUJ
— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) July 8, 2026
Most recently, he guided Al Nassr to the Saudi Pro League title, working closely with Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo during his time in Saudi Arabia.
Although Jesus has never managed a national team before, he has long been regarded as one of Portugal’s most accomplished club coaches.
Reports in Portugal suggest the federation hopes to finalise a four-year contract that would keep Jesus in charge until the conclusion of the 2030 World Cup. Negotiations have reportedly centred mainly on financial terms, with Jesus expected to accept a significantly lower salary than he earned during his time at Al Nassr in order to fulfil his ambition of managing his country.
Portugal’s federation has moved quickly following the World Cup disappointment, with president Pedro Proença insisting the new coach must understand Portuguese football and share the winning mentality expected from the national team.
Should the appointment be confirmed, Jesus will inherit one of the most talented squads in international football, featuring stars such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Bruno Fernandes, Vitinha, João Neves and Rúben Dias.
His immediate task will be to restore Portugal’s momentum after their early World Cup exit and build a team capable of challenging for major honours ahead of Euro 2028 and the 2030 World Cup.
