Portugal Coach Martínez Steps Down After World Cup Elimination
Portugal coach Roberto Martínez resigned after the team's 1-0 loss to Spain in the 2026 World Cup round of 16, saying he came to win the tournament and there's no point staying otherwise.
Roberto Martínez, manager of the Portuguese national team, has confirmed he will resign following Portugal's elimination in the round of 16 at the 2026 World Cup. Martínez took charge of Portugal in 2023 and led the team to victory in the UEFA Nations League in 2024-25. On July 6, after Portugal lost 0-1 to Spain in the World Cup round of 16, Martínez confirmed this was his final match managing the national team. "I came to Portugal to win the World Cup, and I think if we don't win it, there's no point in staying," Martínez said at a post-match press conference. "The board and club president now have the opportunity to choose a new manager. My contract ends today. There's nothing more to say." "Yes, this was my last game for the national team. I'm very proud. I felt welcomed warmly as a Portuguese person. It has been a joy, a pride, and a responsibility," he concluded.
