Jorge Jesus named Portugal manager after World Cup exit
Jesus takes over after Martinez walks
Roberto Martinez is out. Jorge Jesus is in. The 71-year-old has accepted the Portugal job, replacing Martinez immediately after the round of 16 exit to Spain (3) (7). Jesus won the Saudi Pro League with Cristiano Ronaldo at Al Nassr this season. His appointment arrives with a long-term remit: Nations League, Euro 2028, and the next World Cup.
Ronaldo: "Portugal Sempre"
Cristiano Ronaldo posted a short message after what he confirmed was his final World Cup. "Portugal Sempre," he wrote (1) (2) (4). The 39-year-old could not hide his emotion at the final whistle in Dallas. He left without the trophy he chased across five tournaments, and the image on the big screen said more than any statement could.
European champion nearing Premier League return
A Portuguese European champion is close to sealing a move back to the Premier League, according to reports (5). Details remain thin, but the player will not be in Portugal's set-up much longer.
Ex-Fluminense keeper Daniel lands at Leça
Daniel, formerly of Fluminense, has been presented at Leça. "I am very grateful to Fluminense for all those years of learning and the opportunities I had. It was a club that shaped my development as an athlete and as a person. I lived unforgettable moments, won important titles and grew a lot during that period. Now I begin a new chapter in my career, very motivated and prepared for this challenge in Portugal. I want to repay Leça's trust with hard work, dedication and look for great achievements," he said (6).
Fan reactions
The mood on Reddit is cautious but engaged. The Jesus appointment has sparked plenty of comment, with one thread noting Pepe is set to join as his assistant. Meanwhile, Quaresma's criticism of Portugal's midfield is still circulating: "If the game requires you to play in a way the coach told you not to, are you going to look at the coach and wait for instructions? Show some personality and take responsibility." See the full discussion on r/soccer
Sources
- 1. sapo.pt — A curta mensagem de Cristiano Ronaldo após 'desilusão Mundial'
- 2. record.pt — A publicação de Cristiano Ronaldo após adeus ao Mundial'2026: «Portugal Sempre»
- 3. sportnieuws.nl — Portugal grijpt in na drama op WK voetbal: Cristiano Ronaldo krijgt bekende als nieuwe bondscoach
- 4. ge.globo.com — Cristiano Ronaldo posta mensagem após eliminação na Copa do Mundo: "Portugal Sempre"
- 5. abola.pt — Mercado: campeão europeu por Portugal perto do regresso à Premier League
- 6. netflu.com.br — Ex-Fluminense, goleiro é apresentado ao Leça, de Portugal
- 7. rtp.pt — Jorge Jesus vai ser o próximo selecionador nacional