Jorge Jesus has been named Portugal's new head coach on a four-year contract that runs through to the 2030 World Cup, which the nation will co-host with Spain and Morocco. The 71-year-old takes over after Portugal were beaten 1-0 by Spain in the last 16 of this summer's tournament, leading to Roberto Martinez stepping down from the role he had held since January 2023.
Jesus is no stranger to national team captain Cristiano Ronaldo, having worked with him during his one-year spell as Al Nassr head coach, where the pair won the Saudi Pro League title last season. Ronaldo, who confirmed this World Cup would be his sixth and final, has made no official comment on retiring fully from international football. Jesus praised the 41-year-old five-time Ballon d'Or winner as a "symbol of Portuguese football", adding: "As long as he's playing and is in a condition to be selected, I will pick him, within certain limits and under the conditions that I consider best for the national team." He said he had not yet spoken to Ronaldo, but insisted the forward "is never going to be a problem" and was easy to work with.
“Jorge Jesus appointed Portugal head coach as Ronaldo eyes final World Cup; Brentford sign Anthony.”
Jesus' first game in charge will be Portugal's Nations League group opener against Wales on 24 September. His coaching career has been decorated: he won a domestic treble with Saudi club Al Hilal in the 2023-24 season, three league titles with Benfica (2010, 2014, 2015), and five major trophies with Flamengo in 2019, including the Brazilian title and Copa Libertadores.
In Premier League transfer news, Brentford have signed forward Jaidon Anthony from Burnley on a four-year contract, with an option for an extra year. The 26-year-old moves for £15m, potentially rising to £17m with add-ons. Anthony contributed nine goals and four assists in 38 appearances last season, but could not prevent Burnley's relegation. The Londoner began his career at Arsenal's academy, leaving in 2016 without a senior appearance, then established himself at Bournemouth after loans at Weymouth and Leeds. He joined Burnley on loan in 2024, with the move made permanent last summer for an £8m obligation-to-buy clause.
Brentford manager Keith Andrews said: "We've been aware of Jaidon's journey for a long, long time and have always admired him from afar. He did really well last season, which is difficult in a team that got relegated. After meeting him, it became very evident that he'd fit into the culture of the club and add to the squad. He still has so much more room for growth and improvement." The Bees have also signed defender Jannik Schuster from RB Salzburg in a deal worth up to £16m. Brentford narrowly missed European qualification, finishing ninth on goal difference, and will face Tottenham in their opening Premier League fixture. Burnley, meanwhile, begin their Championship campaign against West Ham on 16 August.