NEWYou can now listen to PK Press Club articles!
Portugal announced Jorge Jesus as their new coach on Friday after their disappointing run at the World Cup.
Jesus, 71, has coached several Portuguese clubs, including Benfica and Sporting Lisbon. His last job was with Al-Nassr in the Saudi league, where he coached Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo.
The experienced Portuguese coach will replace Spaniard Roberto Martinez following Portugal’s 1-0 defeat to Spain in the World Cup round of 16.
The Portuguese national team wrote on X on Friday: “A new journey begins today. Welcome to the national team, Mr. Jorge Jesus.”
Jesus’ hiring as coach comes two days after the Portuguese federation announced it was parting ways with Martínez.
Portugal’s disappointing run at the World Cup has sparked a debate among fans and media over the role of 41-year-old Ronaldo. Many questioned Martínez still playing important minutes as a striker and focusing the team’s attack on finding the aging scorer.
Ronaldo, the top scorer in men’s international football with 146 goals, said this was his last World Cup. But the global star is yet to say when he plans to retire from the international game. He will be 43 years old by the time the 2028 European Championship, the next major tournament, takes place.
Jesus, who called Ronaldo a “symbol” of Portuguese sport on Friday, said he still had to speak with him about his future.
Stories related to Portugal
“It’s a conversation we’re both going to have. What does he want to do for the future of his career?” Jesus told reporters during his presentation which took place shortly after his hiring was announced.
Ronaldo is under contract with his Saudi club until 2027.
If Ronaldo continues to play for his nation, Jesus inherits a team full of talent, notably in midfield with Bruno Fernandes, Vitinha and João Neves.
Associated Press reporting.
