Portuguese football coach Paulo Bento has reportedly declined an offer to lead Uzbekistan’s national team, despite the country’s historic qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. According to the Portuguese sports daily A BOLA, the 56-year-old coach turned down the proposal from the Uzbekistan Football Association, stating that the terms did not align with his current career plans.
Bento, who was dismissed as head coach of the United Arab Emirates in March 2024, is still available on the international coaching market. His departure from the UAE team came as a surprise, particularly since the squad remained in contention for what could have been its first-ever World Cup appearance.
Bento previously managed the Portuguese national team from 2010 to 2014, leading them through UEFA Euro 2012 and the 2014 FIFA World Cup. More recently, he coached South Korea at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
Uzbekistan’s reported interest in Bento reflects the country’s broader ambitions to elevate its football program ahead of its World Cup debut in 2026. The national team secured qualification earlier this year, marking a landmark achievement.
Officials have emphasized ongoing reforms within the country’s football infrastructure, with goals to professionalize the domestic league and enhance international competitiveness.
