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Will Cristiano Ronaldo follow suit? Major update on Roberto Martinez’s future as Portugal boss before CR7 and team begin World Cup campaign

Roberto Martinez is set to step down as Portugal’s head coach after the ongoing World Cup campaign. With his contract expiring at the end of July, the Spanish strategist has opted not to extend his tenure. This significant decision has sparked speculation about whether iconic forward Cristiano Ronaldo will also bring down the curtain on his international career, as he continues his pursuit of the one major title missing from his glittering collection.

Martinez confirms his decision to leave

Martinez has formally announced that he will vacate his position as Portugal’s manager regardless of the team’s performance in North America. The former Everton coach will part ways when his current deal concludes in late July. This move signals the end of a successful spell in charge, during which he helped add silverware to Portugal’s honours. The nation, already crowned European champions in 2016 and two-time UEFA Nations League winners after triumphs in 2019 and 2025, now face the task of finding new leadership. The Portuguese Football Association is reportedly aware of his decision and has already begun discreet preparations to appoint a top-level successor.

Seeking a new challenge

The departure appears to be a mutual understanding, clearing the path for both sides to move forward. Explaining the development, talkSPORT reporter Alex Crook shared: “I am told it is his decision not to renew his contract, with Martinez looking to return to club management, possibly in the Premier League or at another leading European club, or even to take charge of another major national team.” Crook also outlined the timeline, adding: “We’ve not heard anything official yet, but he will certainly be questioned about it the next time he faces the media. The decision has been made collaboratively with the Portuguese FA, allowing them to begin searching for his replacement.”

Ronaldo’s potential final act

Martinez’s exit inevitably turns attention towards Cristiano Ronaldo, who many believe is participating in his final major international competition. The veteran forward remains determined to finally lift the World Cup, the only major honour missing from his remarkable career. Alongside stars such as Bruno Fernandes, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner shoulders the immense hopes of an entire nation. Portugal will begin their Group K fixtures against DR Congo on Wednesday, June 17, followed by Uzbekistan on June 23, and will wrap up the group stage against Colombia on June 28. Should Ronaldo decide to retire from international football after this tournament, guiding his team to a historic World Cup triumph would be the perfect ending to an extraordinary journey.

What lies ahead for Portugal?

As Portugal gear up for their opening encounter on Wednesday, their immediate priority remains securing three vital points. Looking beyond the tournament opener, the Portuguese FA must act promptly to appoint a high-quality successor capable of continuing the nation’s progress. Meanwhile, Martinez is expected to explore new opportunities in European football, with ambitions to take up a prominent club or international management role later this summer.

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