The Spanish Coach Who Will Take Over Manchester United

The Red Devils have improved with Carrick on the bench, but they want a proven specialist next year

Héctor Andreu | 1 Mar 2026 | 12.47
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Manchester United is going for Roberto Martínez / Telemundo
Manchester United is going for Roberto Martínez / Telemundo

Roberto Martínez is back in the spotlight in the Premier League. The current Portugal national team coach is on the list of candidates for Manchester United for the upcoming season as reported by AS.

His contract with the Portugal National Team extends until July 31, 2026, just a few days after the conclusion of the World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. However, this contractual detail has not halted the rumors. In England, it is said that Manchester United values his profile, experience, and knowledge of the British competitive environment.

Meanwhile, the Portuguese Federation maintains a clear stance: there will be no discussions about the future until the end of the World Cup tournament.

Roberto Martínez and his Premier League past

Roberto Martínez is well acquainted with the demands of the Premier League. He managed Swansea, Wigan, and Everton, leaving a recognizable mark. His greatest achievement in England was winning the FA Cup with Wigan in 2013, after triumphing over Manchester City in a historic final.

This background gives the Spanish coach significant credibility with the Manchester United board, which is searching for an experienced and strong-willed individual. At Old Trafford, Michael Carrick is serving as the interim coach until the end of the season. His victories against Manchester City and Arsenal have strengthened his candidacy.

Nevertheless, the club is exploring other candidates with more long-term potential. Roberto Martínez shares the list with names like Julian Nagelsmann and Roberto De Zerbi.

The Portugal National Team, priority until the World Cup

At present, Roberto Martínez is solely focused on the Portugal National Team. The team arrives at the World Cup as the reigning Nations League champions with high ambitions. The federation and coaching staff believe the team is ready to compete for the title.

The coach has achieved tactical stability and unity in the squad. His project with the Portugal National Team has established a distinctive identity. However, the interest from Manchester United is significant. According to sources close to the English club, his name is being seriously considered internally.

Roberto Martinez on Manchester United's agenda

Manchester United and the decision after the World Cup

Manchester United is going through a period of transition. The management is evaluating profiles that can restore competitive consistency in the Premier League. Roberto Martínez fits due to his international experience and ability to manage squads with diverse talents. However, he is not the absolute favorite.

Some doubt whether his style is ideal for the current Old Trafford context, while others appreciate his adaptability. Simultaneously, the Portuguese Federation stresses that any decision will be made after the World Cup. Until then, the focus remains on the Portugal National Team.

The Spanish coach has not publicly shown any intention of leaving his position prematurely. His contract is clear, and his commitment is firm. The most likely scenario is that everything will be decided in the summer of 2026. If Manchester United decides to expedite the transition, they may attempt negotiations.

Objective for the Red Devils

The key will be performance in the World Cup. A brilliant tournament would strengthen his position, both to continue with Portugal and to make a leap. In elite football, timelines intersect. While the Portugal National Team dreams of the World Cup, alternative scenarios are unfolding in England.

What is certain is that Roberto Martínez's name will remain linked to Manchester United in the coming months, at least until the World Cup sets the stage for the next chapter in Roberto Martínez's career.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, El entrenador español que cogerá las riendas del Manchester United