Roberto Martinez has announced his departure as Portugal’s coach following their FIFA World Cup elimination by Spain in the Round of 16. Spain secured a 1-0 victory with a late goal from Mikel Merino at Dallas Stadium. Martinez confirmed his exit during a press conference after the match, stating that his aim was to win the World Cup, and without achieving that, he saw no reason to continue.
Having led Portugal since 2023, Martinez mentioned that the decision was not finalized before the tournament. Under his guidance, Portugal reached the quarter-finals of UEFA EURO 2024 and clinched victory in the UEFA Nations League the following year. Martinez expressed pride in his tenure with the national team, emphasizing the warm reception he received as part of the Portuguese community.
Cristiano Ronaldo, who played his final World Cup match, expressed that this tournament marked his last appearance on the global stage. The 41-year-old, who scored 11 goals in 27 World Cup games, praised for his remarkable achievements, including being the first player to score in six World Cup editions. Martinez also lauded Ronaldo’s leadership qualities, highlighting his dedication and influence on the team.
Reflecting on the match, Martinez acknowledged the disappointment of the defeat, citing missed opportunities. Despite a strong defensive performance against a favored opponent, he noted that the crucial details in the Round of 16 ultimately determined the outcome. Martinez bid farewell to his coaching role with gratitude towards the team and the experience shared with Cristiano Ronaldo.
