After leading the golden generation of the Belgian national team to a group-stage exit in the just concluded 2022 World Cup in Qatar, Roberto Martinez has been confirmed as the new manager of the Portuguese national team, replacing Fernando Santos.
The former Everton and Wigan manager managed the team who claimed third place in 2018 and went into last year’s tournament as the world’s second-highest ranked team by FIFA.
Martinez’s contract with Belgium expired at the end of the 2022 World Cup, having been hired in 2016.
The Portuguese FA have confirmed the appointment of the Spaniard as Fernando Santos’ successor, with the former Belgium boss having signed a contract until 2026.
Um novo 𝗟𝗶́𝗱𝗲𝗿 ao serviço de Portugal 🇵🇹: bem-vindo, Mister Roberto Martínez! 🤝 #VesteABandeira
— Portugal (@selecaoportugal) January 9, 2023
A new 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗿 at 🇵🇹 service: welcome, Coach Roberto Martínez! 🤝 #WearTheFlag pic.twitter.com/TCDe3yzJr9
The deal will see him attempt to lead A Seleção to the European Championships in Germany in 2024 and the 2026 World Cup, which will be held in the United States, Mexico and Canada.