Portugal parts with coach Santos – fans think Mourinho would be the suitable successor

The Portuguese Football Federation is said to have parted ways with coach Fernando Santos (68) following their disappointing quarter-final exit from the World Cup in Qatar, according to consistent media reports. Both sides are said to have reached a mutual agreement; speculation about possible successors is naturally already rife. One of the names being mentioned is none other than „The Special One,“ star coach José Mourinho. In this context, FanQ asked fans in Germany whether he would be the right successor for the Portuguese national team.

Mourinho's contract actually runs until 2024.

At least, that's what Portuguese newspaper „A Bola“ reported on Tuesday. Santos had been managing the ‚Seleção‘ since 2014 and won the 2016 European Championship with the team. After Portugal were surprisingly eliminated 0-1 in the quarter-finals by Morocco, Santos had announced he would calmly discuss future steps with the association. Now the decision has been made; the 68-year-old will no longer be Portugal's coach in the future. Criticism grew ever stronger, particularly after the defeat against Morocco. Portugal were superior for almost the entire match but failed to capitalise on their dominance and conceded an unfortunate goal, which led to their defeat. However, he also faced backlash for his handling of star striker Cristiano Ronaldo, as he left the 37-year-old on the bench in the knockout stages after only moderate performances in the preliminary round.

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Various names are already circulating in the news, including José Mourinho. The 59-year-old has a great deal of international experience, having coached in almost all of Europe's top leagues. „The Special One“ is currently managing AS Roma, where he has been in charge since 2021. The only thing missing from his CV is managing a national team. He has repeatedly made it clear that the job of a national coach appeals to him. Other reported candidates include Rui Jorge (Portugal U21 coach), Bruno Lage (former Wolves manager) and current Fenerbahce coach Jorge Jesus. Veteran star Maniche (45) spoke out for Mourinho on „Radio Renascenca“: „That would be a very logical choice. It's logical because he has already won and overcome everything.“

Vor diesem Hintergrund wollte FanQ von den Fans wissen, ob sie José Mourinho für den richtigen Mann halten, um Portugal wieder zum Erfolg zu führen. 64,71% der Befragten sind dieser Meinung und denken, er wäre der passende Nachfolger für Santos. Dementgegen stehen 20,56% der Umfrageteilenehmer, die glauben ein anderer Trainer wäre die bessere Wahl.