Cristiano Ronaldo’s former Al-Nassr boss appointed new Portugal manager | OneFootball

Portugal have named Jorge Jesus as their new head coach, following the national team's disappointing performance at the World Cup.

The 71-year-old brings extensive experience, having managed prominent Portuguese clubs including Benfica and Sporting Lisbon, and most recently Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr.

He replaces Spaniard Roberto Martinez, whose tenure concluded after Portugal's 1-0 defeat by Spain in the World Cup's round-of-16.

The Portuguese national team announced the appointment on X on Friday, writing: "A new journey begins today. Welcome to the National Team, Mister Jorge Jesus."

Jesus left Al-Nassr last month after one year in charge of the Saudi Arabian club. With Ronaldo spearheading the team’s attack, Al-Nassr won the Saudi Pro League title by two points ahead of Al-Hilal, their first title triumph since Ronaldo’s arrival in December 2022.

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Jorge Jesus was unveiled as the new Portugal boss on Friday (AP)

It remains to be seen whether Jesus’s arrival could lead to Ronaldo extending his international career as he ponders his future with the national team.

Ronaldo scored three goals at the World Cup - a brace against Uzbekistan and a penalty in a 2-1 win over Croatia - but struggled to make an impact in the loss to Spain.

The 41-year-old revealed he will not play at another World Cup, but has not ruled out continuing his Portugal career and played down any thoughts over his World Cup career being a failure after exiting the tournament earlier this week.

Ronaldo said: "I've won three titles for Portugal; before Cristiano Ronaldo, Portugal hadn't won a single title," he said.

"The biggest title the national team has ever won was in 2016, the European Championship, which, to be honest, is just as significant to me as a World Cup.

“I leave with clear conscience and giving my best to Portugal. Tomorrow will be a new day and then life will go on.”

He added: "I'm sad to be leaving the World Cup like this," he said. "I gave it my all. I did my best and I'm leaving with a clear conscience. It was my last World Cup, yes, but I'll now have time to reflect and be with my family. I won't be making any rash decisions."

Ronaldo is the most decorated player in international football history with 146 goals in 233 appearances for his country.