Spaniard Roberto Martinez has emerged as one of the top candidates to take over as coach of the Scottish national team, just days after leaving his role as Portugal coach following their elimination in the round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup.

The Scottish Football Association had begun searching for a new manager after Steve Clarke resigned following the team's elimination from the World Cup in the group stage.

Scottish media reports, cited by Spanish newspaper 'AS' and British network TalkSport, stated that Martinez has become a strong candidate, citing his long connections to Scotland both professionally and personally.

The 52-year-old Spanish coach has a special relationship with the country, having previously played for Motherwell, where he met his Scottish wife in 2002, making the idea of returning to live and work in Scotland a viable option for him.

Australian Ange Postecoglou was among the top candidates to succeed Clarke before he took over as coach of Saudi club Al-Nassr, noting that Martinez himself was also among the candidates to lead Al-Nassr.

For his part, Alex Crook, chief football correspondent for TalkSport, confirmed that Martinez's nomination to coach Scotland is not mere speculation.

He said, 'It may seem surprising, but it's not far from reality. I was told some time ago that Martinez was among the names even being considered for the Celtic job.'

He added, 'I think he has a Scottish wife and wouldn't mind the idea of living in Scotland.'

He pointed out that the biggest obstacle would be the financial aspect, explaining, 'He would have to take a significant salary cut compared to what he was earning with the Portuguese national team.'

He added, 'Or perhaps the Scottish FA would need to find external support and investment, as happened with the US federation when they hired Mauricio Pochettino.'