Roberto Martinez has stepped down as Portugal manager with immediate effect following his side’s 1-0 defeat to Spain in the FIFA World Cup round of 16.
The Spaniard confirmed his decision shortly after Portugal’s narrow loss, ending his spell in charge after falling short of the goal he set when he accepted the job in 2023.
Speaking after the match, Martinez explained that he saw no reason to continue after failing to deliver World Cup success.
“I came to Portugal to win the World Cup, and I think that without winning, it doesn’t make sense to continue. The board and the president have the chance to choose their manager. My contract ends today, there’s not much more to say.”
Portugal’s campaign came to an end after Mikel Merino scored a dramatic stoppage-time winner to send Spain into the quarter finals. The defeat also drew criticism of Martinez’s tactical approach, particularly his decision to keep 41-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo on the pitch for the entire match as Portugal struggled to create clear chances.
Despite the disappointing exit, Roberto Martinez rejected suggestions that the tournament should be viewed as a failure. Instead, he pointed to the fine margins that often separate the world’s top teams.
“We didn’t fail, we lost a game against a favourite team, we played face to face, showed incredible talent.
“We won the Nations League on penalties, it’s all about details between the top teams. Failing is not trying to win, and we tried until the last minute, gave everything, the players were incredible, exemplary. That’s what makes you a winner. I hope Portugal’s fans can remember everything that the coaching staff and I did.”
Martinez leaves Portugal after just over three years in charge. During his tenure, he guided the national team to UEFA Nations League glory last summer and oversaw a successful qualifying campaign before this World Cup.
The former Belgium manager departs with an impressive record of 32 victories from 45 matches. However, Portugal’s hopes of lifting the World Cup ended in the last 16, bringing Martinez’s reign to a close.
The Portuguese Football Federation must now begin the search for a new head coach as the national team prepares for the next chapter following another painful World Cup exit.
