Jorge Jesus appointed Portugal’s new head coach through 2030 World Cup
Jorge Jesus has been named the new head coach of Portugal, signing a four-year contract that extends through to the 2030 World Cup. This tournament will be co-hosted by Portugal, along with Spain and Morocco. Jesus takes over after Portugal’s exit from this summer’s tournament, where they were defeated 1-0 by Spain in the last 16. His predecessor, Roberto Martinez, had previously announced his departure from the role he held since January 2023.
Jesus, 71, has a history of working with Portugal’s captain, Cristiano Ronaldo. The two were together during Jesus’s one-year tenure as Al Nassr head coach, where they secured the Saudi Pro League title last season. Following Portugal’s recent elimination, Ronaldo confirmed that this World Cup would be his sixth and final appearance in the tournament, though he has not made any official statements regarding his full retirement from international football.
Ronaldo’s future with the national team
Speaking on Friday, Jesus described the 41-year-old five-time Ballon d’Or winner as a “symbol of Portuguese football.” Ronaldo’s contract with Al Nassr is set to run until 2027. Jesus indicated his willingness to continue selecting Ronaldo for the national team, stating, “As long as he’s playing and is in a condition to be selected, I will pick him, within certain limits and under the conditions that I consider best for the national team.”
Jesus also clarified that he has not yet had a conversation with Ronaldo regarding his future. He emphasised that Ronaldo “is never going to be a problem for the national team. Not for the national team, nor for me.” He recalled his positive experience working with Ronaldo, noting it was “easy to work with him.” Jesus added that they would discuss Ronaldo’s career future. He mentioned that Ronaldo had previously expressed his intention to conclude his career at Al Nassr.
The appointment of Jesus comes at a time when the future of key players like Ronaldo is a topic of discussion. Ronaldo’s participation in a sixth World Cup at 41 years of age was highlighted as an incredible achievement, showcasing his resilience and fitness. Despite the disappointment of Portugal’s early exit, Ronaldo’s former Manchester United teammate, Wayne Rooney, described him as a “genius, a superstar” who has contributed something rare to football.
Coaching career and upcoming fixtures
Jesus’s first match in charge of Portugal will be their Nations League opening Group D game against Wales, scheduled for September 24. His coaching career includes significant successes. He led Saudi club Al Hilal to a domestic treble in the 2023-24 season. During his initial period as manager of Portuguese side Benfica, he secured three league titles in 2010, 2014, and 2015.
Furthermore, Jesus enjoyed a successful year in Brazil with Flamengo, where he won five major trophies in 2019, including the Brazilian title and the Copa Libertadores. His extensive experience and track record of winning titles across different leagues are notable as he takes on the role of Portugal’s head coach. The 2030 World Cup, which Portugal will co-host, is a significant long-term goal for the team under his leadership.
The decision to appoint Jesus and his stance on Ronaldo’s continued involvement signal a new chapter for the Portuguese national team as they look towards future competitions. The upcoming Nations League fixture against Wales will be his first official game.
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Source: bbc.com
