Jorge Jesus is set to be appointed as the new head coach of the Portugal national football team, following the departure of Roberto Martínez after Portugal's elimination from the World Cup. The Portuguese manager, aged 71, will sign a four-year contract with the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) that runs through to June 2030, covering the next World Cup cycle.
Agreement reached with FPF
The 71-year-old Jesus has reached a "full agreement" with the FPF, a source told AFP on Thursday. He will be officially unveiled at a press conference on Friday in Lisbon. Jesus joins as a free agent after leaving Saudi club Al-Nassr last May. His contract will extend until the 2030 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by Portugal, Spain, and Morocco.
Roberto Martínez's departure
Roberto Martínez stepped down as Portugal coach after his contract expired, following Portugal's elimination from the World Cup by Spain. The defeat marked the end of Martínez's tenure, which had begun in 2023. The 41-year-old five-time Ballon d'Or winner, Cristiano Ronaldo, confirmed that this sixth World Cup would be his last, but did not reveal whether he intends to extend his international career.
Jesus's managerial career
Jorge Jesus has extensive managerial experience overseas, having coached Brazilian club Flamengo, Turkey's Fenerbahce, and Saudi clubs Al-Hilal and Al-Nassr. At Al-Nassr, he coached Cristiano Ronaldo. His appointment is seen as a move to bring stability and experience to the Portuguese national team as they prepare for the 2030 World Cup on home soil.
