Roberto Martinez has said “it does not make sense” for him to continue as Portugal coach after their limp exit to Spain in the last 16 of World Cup 2026.
Substitute Mikel Merino settled a tame all-Iberian clash in Dallas by scoring the game’s only goal in the first minute of added time as Martinez’s side failed to threaten a Spain defence that is yet to concede in the tournament.
Martinez’s contract was set to expire at the end of the tournament, though he said in a post-match press conference that no decision had been made about his future until now.
However with Portugal targeting a first world title in north America, Martinez believes falling short indicates that he must step aside and let someone else try to steer the team in what may also be the post-Cristiano Ronaldo era. The forward was again near anonymous despite remaining on the pitch for the entire match.
“It’s the end of the cycle,” Martinez said. “It’s important to have a new voice, a new leader.
“I take with myself the memories, and hope that Portugal has good memories in the three and a half years I was head coach of the team. It was the experience of my life.
“It had not been decided previously [that I would leave after the tournament]. I came with the goal to win the World Cup, and because I did not win, it does not make sense to continue.”
Playmaker Bruno Fernandes said “we are sad” after bowing out but conceded that the team was “not at our best level” while criticising the “same mistakes” made during a tight second half in which neither side created many chances.
Spain now await the winners of USA and Belgium in a quarter-final that will be played on Friday night.
And midfielder Rodri, who was involved in a terse exchange with former Manchester City teammate Bernardo Silva near the end of the match, has called on La Roja to move up gear with the possibility of a semi-final meeting against France in the pipeline should they win their last-eight tie.
“We knew Portugal would defend deep. Both teams were evenly matched and very focused on keeping possession. Overall, I think we played a good game. In the end, we took our chance and decided the match. But we can’t rest on our laurels yet. We’re delighted with the win.”
