​Portugal has confirmed the appointment of Jorge Jesus as the new head coach, with the seasoned manager stepping into the role after a disappointing early exit from the 2026 World Cup. The Portuguese Football Federation announced the news on Friday, drawing an end to days of speculation that followed Roberto Martinez’s decision to resign in the wake of Portugal’s last-16 defeat to Spain. Jesus has agreed to a four-year deal, tying him to the national team through 2030.
At 71 years old, Jesus will take charge of Portugal for the first time in a managerial career spanning more than three decades. He arrives in the wake of a successful spell with Al Nassr, where he steered the Saudi club to the Pro League title before departing at the conclusion of last season. Widely regarded as one of Portugal’s most accomplished coaches, Jesus has enjoyed success both domestically and internationally. His managerial journey includes prominent tenures with Benfica, Sporting CP, SC Braga, and Vitória SC, and has also seen him lead elite clubs such as Flamengo, Fenerbahçe, Al Hilal, and Al-Nassr.
Jesus’ immediate remit will be to prepare Portugal for the 2026/27 UEFA Nations League, with the broader objective of qualifying for Euro 2028, which will be staged in the United Kingdom. His first match in charge is scheduled for September 24, when Portugal host Wales at the Estádio José Alvalade.
The appointment is expected to spark renewed conversations about the international future of Cristiano Ronaldo. The 41-year-old veteran forward had previously suggested that the 2026 World Cup would mark his final tournament, but his strong working relationship with Jesus during their time together at Al Nassr leaves open the possibility that Ronaldo could still extend his Portugal career beyond 2026. As Portugal embarks on this new chapter under Jesus, the nation will hope for renewed success on the European stage and a return to the competitive heights that have defined Portuguese football in recent decades.