Mourinho Already Has His Pick to Win the World Cup
Portugal Emerges as a Strong Contender for the 2026 World Cup
José Mourinho already knows who he believes can lift the 2026 FIFA World Cup trophy. In an interview with Sport Week, the legendary Portuguese manager named Portugal as one of the top favorites to conquer the biggest prize in international soccer this summer.
“The Special One” did not hesitate when speaking about his national team’s potential. “Portugal is capable of anything. They have an incredible generation. We won UEFA Euro 2016, and this generation is technically better than that team. Of course, there is Brazil coached by Carlo Ancelotti and Argentina, but Portugal can win this World Cup,” said Mourinho.
The Portuguese national team heads into the tournament with one of the most talented and complete squads in the competition. Players such as Vitinha, Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva, and Rafael Leão provide enormous quality in midfield and attack while also giving strong support to Cristiano Ronaldo, who could be playing in the final World Cup of his career.
Cristiano Ronaldo and Roberto Martínez Fuel Portugal’s Dream
Although there has been no official confirmation regarding the striker’s international retirement, Cristiano Ronaldo recently left the door open to continue playing even beyond 2026. He recently stated that “2030 is not that far away,” hinting that if he maintains his physical condition, he could attempt to play in another World Cup.
Portugal also appears to have benefited from a favorable group draw. They will open the tournament against Congo, then face Uzbekistan, which will be appearing in its first-ever World Cup, before closing the group stage against Colombia in what will likely be the toughest and most decisive match of the group.
Under head coach Roberto Martínez, Portugal has displayed remarkable consistency. The national team has suffered just one defeat in its last 10 matches, a 2-0 loss against Ireland in Dublin during the World Cup qualifiers.
In addition, the Spanish manager already guided the team to a UEFA Nations League title and has built a far more dynamic and balanced squad. One of his greatest achievements has been helping Cristiano Ronaldo rediscover his best form after a difficult previous World Cup campaign in which he spent several matches on the bench.
Martínez has successfully created a team with a powerful midfield, constant attacking movement, and tactical flexibility capable of changing matches. He attempted something similar with Belgium, but now appears to have a more complete and competitive group at his disposal.
Mourinho knows Portuguese soccer perfectly and dreams of seeing his country capture the only major trophy still missing from its history: the FIFA World Cup.
