Veteran coach José Mourinho is reportedly the leading candidate to take over as head coach of the Portugal national team, with Rúben Amorim tipped to replace him at Benfica in a potential managerial reshuffle this summer.
According to a report by ESPN, the Portuguese Football Federation is considering appointing Mourinho as the next national team manager following the expiration of Roberto Martínez’s contract at the conclusion of the 2026 World Cup. Martínez’s deal is set to end after the tournament, prompting preparations for a new era on the national bench.
Mourinho, currently in charge of Benfica, is viewed as the top choice to lead the national side in the next phase. Should his appointment be finalized, reports suggest that Rúben Amorim would be the preferred option to return to Benfica and begin a new chapter at club level.
Despite Amorim’s notable success with Sporting CP—where he won the Portuguese league title twice—his subsequent spell at Manchester United failed to meet expectations, with a 14-month tenure that impacted his reputation as one of Europe’s most promising young coaches. Nevertheless, he continues to enjoy strong backing within Portugal.
Amorim’s long-standing connection with Benfica could play a decisive role in his return. The former midfielder spent nine years as a player at the club and remains highly regarded by key decision-makers, making him a natural candidate should the managerial vacancy arise.
If confirmed, the dual moves would mark a significant moment in Portuguese football, potentially placing one of the country’s most decorated managers at the helm of the national team while reopening the door for Amorim to relaunch his coaching career at one of Portugal’s historic clubs.
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