Arlington: Roberto Martinez confirmed Monday that he was standing down as coach following Portugal´s World Cup last-16 exit to Spain.
The 52-year-old Spaniard saw his side lose 1-0 to a late Mikel Merino goal at the home of the Dallas Cowboys.The 52-year-old, who was consistently criticised for sticking with ageing captain Cristiano Ronaldo no matter what, had been in charge since 2023. Before that he was manager of Belgium, following tenures in British football with Swansea, Wigan and Everton.
“Yes, it’s my last game for the national team,” he said. “I’m very proud... I’ve felt welcomed as just another Portuguese person, in a very warm way. It’s been a pleasure, a source of pride and a responsibility.”
Portugal’s exit is also expected to bring down the curtain on Cristiano Ronaldo’s long international career. Martinez avoided going further on the 41-year-old’s future but offered a glowing farewell to his captain.
“A word of thanks, because he was an exemplary captain,” Martinez said. “Not just in terms of goals – the statistics speak for themselves – but also in terms of assists.“It’s his day-to-day commitment, the way he lives and breathes football. He’s an example and something we must celebrate.”Martinez said Portugal had stood up to one of the tournament favourites but were undone by fine margins.
