The aftermath of the 2026 FIFA World Cup has triggered a wave of managerial changes, with eight national team coaches resigning after their countries were eliminated from the tournament.
Portugal head coach Roberto Martínez became the latest to leave his position after Portugal’s 1-0 defeat to Spain national football team in the Round of 16 on Monday.
Martínez, who took charge of Portugal in 2023, had come under sustained criticism for his continued reliance on veteran captain Cristiano Ronaldo.
Speaking after the defeat, the 52-year-old confirmed that the match marked the end of his tenure with the Portuguese national team.
“It is true that it was my last game with the Portugal national team,” Martínez said.
“Thank you to the Portuguese people because it was an incredible period, a pride which I can’t describe.
“All that strength and energy we received from the fans and the Portuguese people was incredible. I will carry those memories with me for life.”
His departure had been widely anticipated, with his contract set to expire after the World Cup.
Other Coaches Who Have Resigned
Martínez’s exit follows that of Carlos Queiroz, who stepped down after Ghana national football team were eliminated in the Round of 32.
Several other national teams have also parted ways with their managers following disappointing World Cup campaigns.
Those who have left their roles include:
- Roberto Martínez – Portugal
- Carlos Queiroz – Ghana
- Julian Nagelsmann – Germany
- Sebastián Beccacece – Ecuador
- Ronald Koeman – Netherlands
- Miroslav Koubek – Czechia
- Steve Clarke – Scotland
- Hong Myung-bo – South Korea
With the tournament now at the quarter-final stage, more coaching changes are expected as football federations assess their teams’ performances and begin preparations for the next international cycle.