Jorge Jesus to Lead Portugal
Portugal is set to begin a new chapter after its 2026 FIFA World Cup exit, with veteran coach Jorge Jesus emerging as the leading candidate to replace Robert Martínez and guide the national team toward UEFA Euro 2028 and the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
Portugal is preparing for a new era following its elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup. After the defeat against Spain in the quarterfinals, Spanish coach Robert Martínez officially ended his three-year spell in charge after deciding not to renew his contract.
According to several Portuguese media outlets, veteran manager Jorge Jesus has emerged as the leading candidate to take over the national team. The 71-year-old coach is currently available after a successful stint in Saudi Arabia, where he won the Saudi Pro League with Al-Nassr after previously managing Al-Hilal.
Jesus is also well known for his close relationship with Cristiano Ronaldo, having coached the Portuguese superstar during his time in Saudi football. That familiarity, combined with his vast experience, makes him the favorite to lead Portugal into its next international cycle.
A lo largo de su carrera, Jesus también ha dirigido a clubes de gran prestigio como Benfica, Sporting de Portugal, Braga, Fenerbahçe y Flamengo, acumulando títulos nacionales e internacionales que respaldan su trayectoria.
Según el diario portugués A Bola, el presidente de la Federación Portuguesa de Fútbol, Pedro Proença, considera a Jorge Jesus como el entrenador ideal para iniciar el proceso rumbo a la Eurocopa 2028 y al Mundial de 2030, torneo que Portugal organizará junto a España y Marruecos.
Se espera que en los próximos días ambas partes mantengan una reunión definitiva para cerrar el acuerdo y oficializar el nombramiento del técnico, quien tendría la misión de mantener a Portugal entre las grandes potencias del fútbol mundial y sacar el máximo rendimiento de una generación encabezada por Cristiano Ronaldo y otras figuras de primer nivel.
