Fernando Santos has been sacked as Portugal boss after his side crashed out of the World Cup at the hands of Morocco in Saturday’s quarter-final.
Santos, who was appointed to the role in 2014, led the nation to their first ever major international successes, winning the European Championship in 2016 and the inaugural Nations League three years later. He also secured the most victories by a coach in charge of Portugal.
The veteran boss had a contract through to the summer of 2024 – the conclusion of that year’s Euros – after renewing his deal two years ago but will not stay on in the post following the last-eight exit in Qatar. Portugal’s official Twitter account posted a lengthy video thanking Santos for his service.
“It was an honour to have a coach and a person like Fernando Santos at the head of the National Team,” a statement from the Portuguese FA reads.
“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. The FPF Board will now begin the process of choosing the next national coach.”
Santos had a reported falling out with Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo after his decision to surprisingly drop him for the last-16 clash against Switzerland. That move was justified as Benfica striker Goncalo Ramos netted a sensational hat-trick in his side’s 6-1 demolition of the Swiss.
