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Jose Mourinho Poised to Take Helm of Portugal National Team Post-2026 World Cup
Following the conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, hosted jointly by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, Jose Mourinho is anticipated to be appointed as the head coach of the Portugal national football team. This strategic move by the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) aims to capitalize on Mourinho’s extensive managerial expertise and his deep connection to Portuguese football.
FPF’s Plans After Roberto Martinez’s Tenure Ends
The current Portugal manager, Roberto Martinez, is expected to see his contract expire at the end of the 2026 global tournament. The FPF is reportedly preparing to approach Mourinho, who is presently managing Benfica, to take over the national team’s reins. This transition is viewed as a significant step to rejuvenate the squad and build on Portugal’s recent international performances.
Mourinho’s Return to Benfica and Potential Succession
Mourinho rejoined Benfica in September on a two-year contract, marking his second spell with the club. However, should he accept the national team role, Benfica is likely to look towards Ruben Amorim as his successor. Amorim, recently relieved of his duties at Manchester United, has a storied history with Benfica as a former player and is highly regarded in Portuguese football circles, especially after his successful tenure at Sporting CP.
International Ambitions: Mourinho’s Vision for National Team Management
Jose Mourinho has openly expressed his aspiration to manage at the international level. In an interview with Corriere Dello Sport in early 2023, while still at Fenerbahce, he shared his dream of leading a country in a major tournament such as the European Championship or the World Cup. Mourinho emphasized his desire to unite a nation through football, a feat he has achieved multiple times at club level.
“I want to play a European Championship or a World Cup and unite a country around a team, as I have already done many times with the clubs. I want to do it for football and what this sport represents. It will be incredible.”
Clarifying His Priorities: Portugal First, Then Possibly Others
In August 2023, Mourinho addressed rumors linking him to the Brazil national team, clarifying his priorities in an interview with Sporty Net. He stated that his foremost goal is to lead Portugal in a World Cup, underscoring his personal and professional ties to the country. While he acknowledged the possibility of coaching other national teams in the future, he emphasized that any such role would need to have a meaningful connection to him, citing Brazil, England, and Italy as examples due to historical, cultural, or professional links.
“My destiny, in terms of internationals, is to play in a World Cup with the Portuguese national team. I never considered coaching the Brazilian national team. My first experience has to be with Portugal, and then people have to understand that I’m a professional and that I can coach other teams, but always teams with which I have something that connects me.”
Looking Ahead: The Future of Portuguese Football Leadership
With Mourinho’s potential appointment, Portugal aims to harness his tactical acumen and leadership to build a competitive squad for upcoming international challenges. His track record of success across Europe, including multiple league titles and Champions League triumphs, positions him as a transformative figure for the national team. As the 2026 World Cup approaches, all eyes will be on how this managerial transition unfolds and its impact on Portugal’s footballing ambitions.
