Read 3 minutes9 Jul 2026 08:04 PM IST
After being knocked out of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which led to the resignation of Roberto Martinez, Portugal is embarking on a new era. According to Portuguese news outlet Record, Jorge Jesus is set to be unveiled as the new head coach on Friday – a move that will please his talisman, Cristiano Ronaldo.
Notably, Ronaldo won his first Saudi Pro League title last season – the fourth time – under Jesus’ stewardship. Ronaldo also played a key role in bringing Jesus, who previously won the league with Al-Hilal, to his team Al-Nasr.
Joining in, Jesus mentioned that winning trophies was his only goal for Ronaldo. “When I received the invitation from Jose Semedo (Al-Nasr CEO) and Chris (Tiano Ronaldo), I accepted this challenge just to help Chris win the title in Saudi Arabia. That was my aim. We really want it, for the Al Nasser nation and for Chris as well. It is fundamental. Not only for what he has done for Saudi Arabian football in particular, but also for Nasr’s football,” he said.
Apart from Saudi Arabia, the Portuguese manager coached clubs in Portugal, Brazil and Fenerbahce; Winning trophies in all those countries. Now 71, Jesus’ managerial career spans 26 years, in which he has worked at 17 clubs. Among his notable trophies are the now-defunct UEFA Intertoto Cup with Braga, the Campeonato Brasileiro Serie A with Flamengo and four Liga Portugal titles with Benfica. The Portugal job, however, will be his first experience managing a national team.
Meanwhile, Portugal are looking forward to a revival after exiting in the round of 16 in the last five editions of the World Cup. Ronaldo announced that this was his last World Cup after his team lost 1-0 against Spain, however, he is yet to make a decision about his future in international football.
“I am sad to leave the World Cup like this. I gave my all. I tried my best, and I am leaving with a clear conscience. This was my last World Cup, yes, but now I have time to reflect and be with my family. I will not make any rash decisions,” he said after the game.