Portugal changed their coach after exiting the World Cup and decided to name favorite Cristiano Ronaldo

Portugal are ready for the next chapter of the Cristiano Ronaldo era. Just days after Roberto Martinez stepped down following Portugal’s disappointing World Cup exit, the Portuguese Football Federation is set to turn to one of Ronaldo’s most trusted managers in recent times.

According to Portuguese daily A Bola, the federation is preparing to name Jorge Jesus, a 71-year-old veteran coach, as Martinez’s successor. A meeting has reportedly been scheduled between Jesus and Portuguese Football Federation president Pedro Proenza to discuss the role.

If appointed, it would be the first time in Jesus’ long coaching career that he would take charge of a national team. The move also links Jesus with Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo, who he coached at Al Nassr last season. Jesus guided the Saudi Pro League club to the league title, with Ronaldo playing a central role in the winning campaign.

Martinez’s departure came immediately after Portugal’s 1-0 defeat by Spain in the round of 16 at the FIFA World Cup. The Belgian confirmed after the match that his tenure was over.

“It’s the end of the cycle,” Martinez said after the loss.

“Now it’s important to have it again and it’s legitimate for the president to choose his national team coach. I’m grateful for all the support they’ve given me.”

Martinez’s spell has often come under scrutiny due to his unwavering belief in Ronaldo. The Portugal captain, who turned 41 earlier this year, remained an automatic starter and regularly finished full games despite growing questions about whether the team had become too reliant on their all-time leading goalscorer.

RONALD’S RELATIONSHIP WITH JORGE JESUS

However, Jesus never hid his admiration for Ronaldo. The veteran coach repeatedly backed the striker during their time together at Al Nassr, where Ronaldo enjoyed another prolific season as the club lifted the Saudi Pro League title.

Should the appointment go through, Jesus will inherit one of the most talented squads in international football, featuring the likes of Rafael Leao, Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva, Vitinha and Joao Neves. However, the biggest question surrounding his tenure is likely to remain the same as under Martinez: how long Portugal will build their team around Ronaldo.

Jesus brings more than three decades of coaching experience to the role. He has previously managed Benfica, Sporting CP and Turkish giants Fenerbahce, in addition to successful stints in Saudi Arabia. A former defender, Jesus played professionally from 1973 to 1990 before turning to coaching.

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Issued by:

Kingshuk Kusari

Published on:

09 Jul 2026 18:49 IST