Before stepping down in 2022, Martínez endured Wigan’s relegation, was dismissed by Everton, and oversaw Belgium’s shock World Cup group-stage exit.
Whether any of that hurt as much as being released as a player is arguable, but it clearly shaped his resilience as a coach.
Now Portugal’s head coach—and out of contract this summer—he is again in charge of a star-studded squad carrying huge expectations.
Since taking over in 2023, Martínez has lost only six of 40 matches. Portugal lifted the Nations League last summer, beating Germany in the semi-finals and Euro 2024 champions Spain in the final.
The challenge is to turn that form into World Cup success. Eliminated by France in the Euro quarter-finals two years ago, they have arrived in the United States with one of the strongest squads in the field.
At the back, options include Rúben Dias, João Cancelo and Nuno Mendes. The midfield features João Neves, Vitinha, Bruno Fernandes and Bernardo Silva, while Cristiano Ronaldo, Pedro Neto and Rafael Leão lead the line.
Anything less than a deep run would feel like another missed chance for Martínez and his elite squad. After opening Group K with a draw against Congo, they will look to step up against Uzbekistan on Tuesday (18:00 BST) before facing Colombia.