Jorge Jesus leading candidate to replace Martinez as Portugal coach, Reports

Veteran Portuguese manager Jorge Jesus has emerged as the top choice to succeed Roberto Martínez as the head coach of the Portugal national football team, according to local reports. The Portuguese Football Federation is reportedly eager to finalize its selection by the end of the week, with the 71-year-old Jesus being their preferred candidate to guide the team towards the 2030 FIFA World Cup.

While Portugal Football Federation president Pedro Proença refrained from naming specific candidates, he emphasized the federation's swift approach to finding a successor. Proença stated that the new coach must possess a deep understanding of Portuguese football and align with the national team's winning mentality. He expressed confidence in reaching a decision by week's end.

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The coach must be someone who knows Portuguese football well and identifies with the winning mindset of the federation and the national team.

Jesus is currently unattached after departing Al Nassr FC in May, having led the Saudi Pro League club to a league title. During his tenure there, he managed Portuguese stars Cristiano Ronaldo and João Félix. Although he has never managed a national team, Jesus boasts an impressive record as a club coach in Portugal, securing 10 major trophies with S.L. Benfica, including three Primeira Liga titles. He also achieved success with Sporting CP, Clube de Regatas do Flamengo, and Al Hilal SFC.

The search for a new coach follows the federation's official confirmation that Martínez had departed after his contract expired. Martínez had previously announced his exit after Portugal's elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup by Spain in the Round of 16.

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There are several possibilities. I will handle this matter myself. I hope we’ll have concrete news by the end of the week.