Jose Mourinho is expected to be offered the Portugal national team role once Roberto Martinez’s contract expires after the FIFA World Cup, according to report by ESPN.
The move would mark a major shift for the Portuguese Football Federation as it plans for the post-World Cup era.
Mourinho, one of the most decorated managers in world football, has long been linked with national team job but has never formally taken charge.
Sources indicate that discussions are likely to accelerate once Martinez completes his World Cup assignment with Portugal. If confirmed, the appointment would see Mourinho return to the international stage with a mission to maximize Portugal’s golden generation and pursue major honours.
Mourinho who returned to Benfica on a two-year deal in September previously made no secret of his ambition to step into the international management. Speaking in January last year while in charge of Fenerbahce, he told Corriere Dello Sport that his dream was to manage a national side at a European Championship or World Cup, bringing an entire country together through football.
Later, in August, he played down links to the Brazil job and reiterated that Portugal remains his priority.
In an interview with SPortyNet, Mourinho said his ultimate goal was to lead Portuguese national team, at a World Cup, stressing that his first experience in international management must be with his own country.
For many fans, It would represent a full-circle movements for one of Portugal’s most iconic football figures.
However, Roberto Matinez took over as Portugal manager in 2023.Under his leadership, the team has played 36 matches, securing 27 wins, 3 draws, and 6 defeats.
Martinez’s crowning achievement with Portugal to date is clinching the UEFA Nations League title in 2024/25 season.
His current contract with Portugal runs until July 31, 2026.
-9News Nigeria.
