Portugal's national team confirmed on Wednesday the departure of Roberto Martínez, two days after the 2026 World Cup Round of 16 loss to Spain. The contract termination, scheduled from the start, ends a three‑and‑a‑half‑year spell that included the 2025 Nations League triumph.

Why was the announcement made now?

The Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) released the official statement right after the final whistle against Spain, honoring the clause that ends the agreement two days after Portugal's last World Cup match. The decision arrives as the side tries to rebuild confidence, having beaten Croatia 2‑1 on 2026‑07‑02 and posting a recent record of 3 wins and 2 draws in the last five games, with a two‑game winning streak.

What did the FPF highlight about Martínez's tenure?

The federation thanked Martínez and his staff for professionalism, recalling the 2025 Nations League title as a high point. It also praised how the coach respected the country and Portuguese football, despite not advancing beyond the Round of 16. The FPF announced that the search for a new head coach is already underway, aiming for someone who can guide Portugal to a deeper tournament run.

What does the immediate future look like?

With the coaching vacancy open, Portugal returns to training focused on the next fixture: a friendly against Wales on 2026‑09‑24 at home. Meanwhile, the team keeps its recent form – three wins and two draws in the last five matches – and hopes to turn the momentum from the Croatia win into consistency for the next cycle.

Who could be the next manager?

No names are confirmed yet, but the FPF has received proposals from coaches with international tournament experience. The priority appears to be finding someone who can manage a talented squad like the current one and lead Portugal to at least the quarter‑finals in the 2026‑2028 window. The process should finish before the Wales friendly, giving the new boss time to assess the group.

Martínez's exit creates a gap, but also paves the way for a new era. Portugal, still riding the high from the Croatia victory, enters the final stretch of 2026 hoping to turn recent good form into concrete results in upcoming challenges.