Impact in Portugal: Roberto Martínez heading to Al-Nassr after the 2026 World Cup? The FPF is already looking for a successor

Portuguese football is experiencing days of high tension. While the Lusitanian team fights to advance in the 2026 World Cup, the future of its coach, Roberto Martínez, has become a hotbed of speculation. Reports point to a possible transfer to Saudi Arabia's Al-Nassr, which has led the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) to already consider a list of candidates for an eventual replacement.

The Siren Song of Saudi Arabia

The conversations between Roberto Martínez and Al-Nassr are not new; in fact, they reportedly began before the start of the 2026 World Cup, according to various media outlets. The Spanish coach, whose contract with Portugal expires at the end of July 2026, is in advanced negotiations to become the Saudi club's next manager, which would mean a reunion with superstar Cristiano Ronaldo at club level. Currently, Martínez is leading Portugal in the 2026 World Cup, a tournament that has not started without hiccups for the team, with a 1-1 draw against the Democratic Republic of Congo in their debut that has fuelled debate about his management. This move to Saudi Arabia would represent a significant shift in Martínez's career, having spent the last decade in international football with Belgium and now Portugal.

A Contract Expiring and an Imminent Decision

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Roberto Martínez's contract with the FPF ends once the 2026 World Cup concludes. This means that, regardless of Portugal's performance in the tournament, his continuity is not guaranteed. Martínez himself has reiterated that his focus is fully on the World Cup, but the information about his future does not cease. The possibility of Al-Nassr, a club with great ambitions and resources, offering him a long-term project and the chance to work with Cristiano Ronaldo again is an undeniable attraction. If realised, Martínez would succeed Jorge Jesus on the Al-Nassr bench.

The FPF Makes a Move: Who Will Take the Reins?

Given the imminent possibility of Martínez's departure, the Portuguese Football Federation has not wasted time. They are already preparing for life after Martínez and have drawn up a list of candidates to take charge of the national team. Among the names strongly rumoured for the Lusitanian dugout are renowned Portuguese coaches with extensive experience and success both nationally and internationally:

• Jorge Jesus: Curiously, the current Al-Nassr manager, has been identified as one of the main candidates to replace Martínez in Portugal. His successful career at clubs like Benfica and Flamengo, with multiple titles, makes him a very attractive option for the FPF.
• Abel Ferreira: Recognised for his successful spell at Brazil's Palmeiras, where he has won multiple Copa Libertadores titles, he is another profile considered by the federation.
• Sérgio Conceição: With a solid reputation forged at FC Porto, where he broke Benfica's dominance in the Portuguese league, he is also on the shortlist of possible successors.
• José Mourinho: Although recent reports (from February 2026) place him at Benfica, his name has always been linked to the national team, and he has previously expressed his desire to manage Portugal in a World Cup or European Championship.

High Tension Scenario

The current situation creates a scenario of high uncertainty, but also of opportunity for Portuguese football. The FPF seeks to ensure a smooth transition in a key position, especially with a generation of talent that demands peak performance. The imminent conclusion of the 2026 World Cup and Roberto Martínez's potential decision will mark the beginning of a new era for the Portugal national team, which could see a new leader in its dugout very soon.