A quarter-final defeat against Morocco ended Santos’ era at Portugal.
Fernando Santos leaves the Portuguese national team after his side’s underwhelming displays in the 2022 World Cup.
Santos came under fire for not starting Cristiano Ronaldo in Portugal’s last two games in the tournament.
Morocco stunned Santos’ men with a 1-0 win to end their World Cup campaign in the quarter-finals. The 68-year-old boss ends his successful stint as Portugal’s manager, which saw them claim the European Championship in 2016.
A statement from the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) reads: “The FPF and Fernando Santos agreed to end the highly successful journey that began in September 2014.
“After one of the best participations ever by the national team in the final stages of the World Cup, in Qatar, FPF and Fernando Santos understand that this is the right moment to start a new cycle.
“It was an honour to have a coach and a person like Fernando Santos at the head of the national team.
“The FPF thanks Fernando Santos and his technical team for the services provided over eight unique years and believes that this thanks is also made on behalf of the Portuguese people.”
In his emotional statement after the Morocco defeat, Ronaldo admitted his dream of winning the World Cup was over. However, CR7 is yet to decide whether he wants to retire from the national team.
Santos’ departure might pave the way for Ronaldo’s stay in Portugal’s squad ahead of the 2024 Euros in Germany.
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