Online Reporter
ROBERTO MARTINEZ has decided to LEAVE his job as Portugal boss after the World Cup, according to reports.
The Spaniard will not renew his contract, even if Cristiano Ronaldo and Co go on to win the tournament.
Martinez, 52, has been in charge of Portugal since 2023.
According to talkSPORT, the former Everton and Wigan boss has mulled over the situation and decided not to extend.
He could look for a Premier League return, but also isn’t against staying in international management.
Portugal launched their World Cup campaign against DR Congo in Houston and will then take on Uzbekistan at the same venue next Tuesday before rounding off their group stage against Colombia in Miami on June 27.
Martinez has so far taken charge of 40 matches as Portugal boss; winning 30, drawing four and losing six.
He guided his side to the quarter-finals of Euro 2024 before bowing out on penalties to France.
Martinez began his managerial career with Swansea in 2007.
The affable former midfielder subsequently landed the Wigan job two years later and went on to win the FA Cup with the Latics.
Despite failing to prevent relegation to the Championship, Martinez was handed the Everton job in 2013.
The Toffees came fifth in his first season, their best campaign of the last 20 years.
But back-to-back 11th place finishes saw Martinez sacked from the role.
He has since only worked in international football, spending six years as Belgium boss before eventually joining Portugal.
Martinez’s side boast several star names and are among the favourites to win the World Cup.
Ahead of the tournament, he said: “I wouldn’t say there’s an anxiety in Portugal to win the World Cup.
“I would say it’s excitement, hope. That comes with these players.
“We’re talking about Cristiano Ronaldo. The Manchester United captain [Bruno Fernandes]. The Porto captain [Diogo Costa]. The Man City captain [Bernardo Silva].
“Four important players at the European champions [Paris Saint-Germain]. That makes the Portuguese people feel good. We know we’ve never won the World Cup; that tells us it’s hard.
“We know things can change fast, that talent alone is not enough, that small details can go against you, and of course it’s a hammer blow when you don’t succeed, but let us dream.
“I think we can. And that’s the attitude I want our team to have.” – Sun
