Roberto Martinez resigns after Portugal World Cup exit

Portugal's hopes of lifting the World Cup ended on Monday as Spain edged a tightly contested encounter. Following the defeat, Martinez confirmed that his contract had come to an end and said it was the right time for the Portuguese Football Federation to appoint a new coach.

"I came to Portugal to win the World Cup, and I think that without winning, it doesn't make sense to continue," Martinez said after the match.

"The board and the president have the chance to choose their manager. My contract ends today, there's not much more to say."

The former Belgium boss leaves after overseeing 45 matches, winning 32 of them since taking charge in 2023. During his time with Portugal, he guided the national team to UEFA Nations League success last summer, adding a major trophy to the country's honours list.

Martinez defended his players despite their World Cup elimination, insisting the defeat to one of the tournament favourites should not be viewed as a failure. Portugal struggled to create clear chances against Spain, while veteran forward Cristiano Ronaldo, aged 41, played the full match as Martinez kept faith with his captain.

"We didn't fail, we lost a game against a favourite team," Martinez said. "We played face to face and showed incredible talent.

"We won the Nations League on penalties. It's all about details between the top teams. Failing is not trying to win, and we tried until the last minute and gave everything. The players were incredible and exemplary. That's what makes you a winner.

"I hope Portugal's fans can remember everything that the coaching staff and I did."

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