Portugal appoint Jorge Jesus as manager following Roberto Martinez exit
Portugal have appointed 71-year-old Jorge Jesus as their new head coach following the departure of Roberto Martinez.
The experienced manager steps into the role after the national side’s disappointing World Cup campaign concluded with a 1-0 round-of-16 defeat by Spain.
Martinez vacated his position immediately after the tournament exit.
The Portuguese Football Federation confirmed the appointment on social media on Friday.
“A new journey begins today. Welcome to the National Team, Mister Jorge Jesus.”
Reunion with Ronaldo?
The move comes just a month after Jesus left Saudi Arabian side Al-Nassr.
During his one-year tenure in the Middle East, he guided a team spearheaded by Cristiano Ronaldo to the Saudi Pro League title.
That domestic triumph marked the club’s first championship since the iconic forward arrived in December 2022.
It remains to be seen whether the appointment of a familiar face will convince the 41-year-old attacker to extend his international career.
World Cup exit and international future
The veteran striker scored three goals during the recent tournament, including a brace against Uzbekistan and a penalty against Croatia.
However, the national team’s talisman struggled to make a significant impact during the narrow elimination against the Spanish.
Despite confirming this will be his final World Cup, the most decorated player in international football history has not entirely closed the door on representing his country again.
“I’ve won three titles for Portugal; before Cristiano Ronaldo, Portugal hadn’t won a single title.”
“The biggest title the national team has ever won was in 2016, the European Championship, which, to be honest, is just as significant to me as a World Cup.”
“I gave it my all. I did my best and I’m leaving with a clear conscience.”
He added that he intends to spend time reflecting with his family before making any definitive decisions regarding his playing future.
The prolific goalscorer currently holds the all-time international scoring record with an astonishing 146 goals in 233 appearances.