Martinez quits Portugal following the country’s exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with Roberto Martinez confirming that the round-of-16 defeat to Spain was his final match in charge of the national team.
Portugal’s World Cup campaign came to an end after a 1-0 loss to neighbouring Spain at the home of the Dallas Cowboys.
The decisive moment came late in the game when Mikel Merino scored the winning goal, ending Portugal’s hopes of progressing to the quarter-finals.
Speaking after the match on Monday, the 52-year-old coach confirmed that his time with the national team had come to an end.
“It is true that it was my last game with the Portugal national team,” Martinez said.
He also expressed his appreciation to the Portuguese people for their support throughout his tenure.
“Thank you to the Portuguese people because it was an incredible period, a pride which I can’t describe.
“All that strength, energy we had from all the fans, from all the Portuguese people was incredible.
“Thank you for this and I take with me a memory for life.”
Martinez took over as Portugal head coach in 2023 after leaving his role with Belgium, where he spent six years in charge of the national side. His appointment came with high expectations, given Portugal’s talented squad and ambitions of competing for major international honours.
During his time with Portugal, Martinez frequently faced criticism over his continued reliance on veteran captain Cristiano Ronaldo.
Despite questions surrounding Ronaldo’s age and role in the team, the coach consistently kept him at the centre of his plans throughout major competitions.
Before moving into international football, Martinez built his managerial career in England. He managed Swansea City, Wigan Athletic and Everton before taking charge of Belgium, where he guided the team through several major tournaments.
Also Read: Spain Beat Portugal 1- 0 to End Ronaldo’s World Cup Dream
Martinez’s departure had been widely anticipated, with his contract set to expire after the World Cup. His confirmation now allows the Portuguese Football Federation to begin the search for a new manager ahead of the country’s upcoming international fixtures.
