Roberto Martinez has resigned as Portugal's head coach following a 1-0 defeat to Spain in the World Cup round of 16 on Monday evening. The decision came moments after pundit Chris Sutton branded the former Everton manager an 'embarrassment' on social media.
Portugal struggled to create chances against Spain, with Mikel Merino scoring the decisive goal late in the match. Martinez, 52, took responsibility for the team's early exit, stating, 'I came to Portugal to win the World Cup, and I think that, without winning it, there’s no point in continuing. The board and the president now have the opportunity to choose the new manager.'
Martinez's Tenure and Criticism
Martinez was appointed in 2023 after a successful spell with Belgium, where he led the Red Devils to a third-place finish at the 2018 World Cup. However, his time with Portugal was marked by underwhelming performances in major tournaments. Despite winning the 2024/25 Nations League, Portugal crashed out of Euro 2024 in the quarter-finals on penalties to France.
Chris Sutton took to social media immediately after the Spain defeat, writing: 'Roberto Martinez is an embarrassment. Gonçalo Ramos stays on the bench. Ronaldo does what he wants...again! Portugal were a freak show...a circus. Martinez so weak.'
Portugal's World Cup Campaign
Portugal topped Group F in the World Cup with wins over Czechia and Turkey, but a loss to Georgia raised concerns. They edged past Slovenia on penalties in the round of 16 before the defeat to Spain. Spain will now face Belgium in the quarter-finals on Friday in Los Angeles.
Martinez's resignation marks the end of a turbulent period for Portuguese football. He expressed gratitude in his farewell, saying, '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.'
