07/10/26 10:33:00
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07/10 10:01 CDT Portugal hires Jorge Jesus as its new coach after disappointing
World Cup
Portugal hires Jorge Jesus as its new coach after disappointing World Cup
LISBON, Portugal (AP) --- Portugal announced Jorge Jesus as its new coach on
Friday following its disappointing run at the World Cup.
The 71-year-old Jesus has coached several Portuguese clubs, including Benfica
and Sporting Lisbon. His last job was with Al-Nassr in the Saudi Arabian
league, where he coached Portugal star Cristiano Ronaldo.
The experienced Portuguese coach will replace Spaniard Roberto Martinez after
Portugal lost 1-0 to Spain in the round-of-16 of the World Cup.
The Portuguese national team wrote on X on Friday that "A new journey begins
today. Welcome to the National Team, Mister Jorge Jesus."
The hiring of Jesus as coach came two days after the Portuguese federation said
it was parting ways with Martnez.
Portugal's underwhelming run at the World Cup sparked a debate among fans and
media regarding the role of the 41-year-old Ronaldo. Many questioned Martnez
still playing him major minutes at striker and focusing the team's attack on
trying to find the aging scorer.
Ronaldo, the leading scorer for men's international soccer with 146 goals, said
that this was his final World Cup. But the global star has yet to say when he
plans to retire from international play. He will be 43 by the time the 2028
European Championship, the next major tournament, rolls around.
Jesus, who called Ronaldo a "symbol" of Portuguese sports on Friday, said that
he still needs to talk with him about his future.
"That's a conversation we're both going to have. What does he want to do for
the future of his career?" Jesus told reporters at his presentation that was
held shortly after the announcement of his hiring.
Ronaldo is under contract with his Saudi club through 2027.
Whether Ronaldo continues to play for his nation, Jesus inherits a
talent-packed team, especially at midfield with Bruno Fernandes, Vitinha and
Joao Neves.
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See more of AP's World Cup coverage here
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