Roberto Martinez remains focused on World Cup success with Portugal despite uncertainty over his future.
Portugal head coach Roberto Martinez has refused to comment on his future, insisting his full focus remains on guiding the national team through the 2026 World Cup.
SILÊNCIO 🤫
Portugal está chegando… 🇵🇹 pic.twitter.com/cHx6er0BfM
— Copa do Mundo FIFA🏆 (@fifaworldcup_pt) June 16, 2026
The Spaniard was questioned about reports suggesting the tournament could be his final assignment with Portugal ahead of Wednesday’s Group K opener against the Democratic Republic of Congo in Houston.
While Martinez did not dismiss the rumours, he described them as old news and shifted attention back to the task at hand.
Martinez acknowledged that his current contract expires after the World Cup but stressed that discussions about what comes next can wait until the tournament is over. Instead, he wants complete concentration on helping Portugal achieve their long-term objective.
“The most important thing is to focus on winning the World Cup,” Martinez said. “We are focused on finishing the work we started three-and-a-half years ago and giving everything for this competition.”
Portugal’s preparations have suffered a setback with the absence of defender Ruben Dias. The Manchester City centre-back has failed to recover from a knock sustained during the recent warm-up victory over Nigeria and will miss the opening match against Congo.
🚨🇵🇹 OFFICIAL: Ruben Dias misses Portugal opening game against Congo. ❌⚠️
“He’s not fully fit and we won’t take any risks”, says Roberto Martínez. pic.twitter.com/qRhRBrHCi7
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 17, 2026
Martinez explained that the medical staff were unwilling to take any unnecessary risks with one of the team’s most important players. The coach emphasized that Dias will only return when he is fully fit and capable of performing at his highest level.
While Dias will be unavailable, Portugal will still be able to rely on veteran captain Cristiano Ronaldo. The 41-year-old is preparing for a record sixth World Cup appearance, and Martinez praised the forward’s relentless commitment and professionalism despite his vast experience.
The Portugal boss described Ronaldo as an inspiration to players around the world and said his enthusiasm remains as strong as ever.
🔜 Em breve, o Capitão jogará o sexto Mundial consecutivo 🐐🇵🇹#VaiDarPortugal | #FIFAWorldCup pic.twitter.com/Jt63B70oSY
— Portugal (@selecaoportugal) June 17, 2026
Martinez believes the Al-Nassr striker continues to play a vital role, not only through his goals but also by creating space and opportunities for teammates in attack.
Looking ahead to the clash with Congo, Martinez warned against underestimating the African nation, highlighting their physical strength and dangerous counter-attacking ability.
He also pointed to Cape Verde’s surprise draw against Spain as proof that there are no easy matches at this World Cup.
