Ronaldo backs Martinez legacy, refuses to name next Portugal coach

Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo said he will not comment on who should replace Roberto Martinez as the national team coach, leaving the decision to federation president Pedro Proenca. Ronaldo made the remarks after Portugal's 1-0 loss to Spain in the Round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup, a match that marked his final appearance for Portugal. He praised Martinez, saying the Spaniard was a great coach whom he loved working with, and thanked him for winning a trophy with the side. Ronaldo also noted that Martinez's contract expired after the match and that it is not the right time to discuss the next appointment. While Ronaldo's international career ends, his club side Al-Nassr has already appointed Ange Postecoglou as head coach, ending earlier links to Martinez. For Nigerian football fans, the moment underscores how even legends eventually step aside and the importance of respecting coaches' roles, offering a lesson in professionalism and planning for life after active play.

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/07/07/cristiano-ronaldo-speaks-on-portugal-next-coach-as-martinez-leaves/