Martinez Steps Down After Portugal's World Cup Exit

Portugal's coach confirmed his departure after the team lost 1-0 to Spain in the round of 16, with Mikel Merino scoring the winner in overtime. Martinez stated he came to Portugal with the goal of winning the World Cup and sees no reason to continue after failing to achieve that objective. playerbros.org

The 2023 appointee's exit means Portugal will have a new coach when they face Norway in the Nations League at the end of September. Martinez praised Cristiano Ronaldo as an exemplary captain but didn't comment on the 41-year-old star's future, which likely signals the end of Ronaldo's international career after Portugal's World Cup disappointment.