Artur Jorge

Portuguese football manager and former player, head coach of the Portugal national team.

Jorge Fernando Pinheiro de Jesus (born 24 July 1954) is a Portuguese professional football manager and former player who is the head coach of the Portugal national team.

Quick Facts

Full name: Artur Jorge Braga de Melo Teixeira
Born: 13 February 1946
Birthplace: Porto, Portugal
Died: 22 February 2024
Place of death: Lisbon, Portugal
Position: Striker
Total caps: 288
Total goals: 194

Lore & Background

Jesus started his career with Sporting CP, going on to play for 12 other clubs in 17 years as a professional, which included nine Primeira Liga seasons. He began a coaching career in 1990, and his first stop in the main category was with Felgueiras in the 1995–96 campaign. He went on to work with several teams, arriving at Benfica in 2009 and winning ten trophies (a club record for a single manager, winning all domestic trophies at least once) as well as reaching two UEFA Europa League finals with them in six seasons.

He became manager of Flamengo in 2019 and won the Copa Libertadores in his first year. He returned to Benfica in 2020 but did not win a trophy despite a Portuguese record investment during the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2022, he joined Turkish club Fenerbahçe before going on to have spells in charge of Saudi Pro League clubs Al-Hilal and Al-Nassr, winning the domestic title with both. In July 2026, he was named the manager of the Portugal national team.

Reader's Guide

Jesus was twice considered one of the ten best club coaches in the world by the International Federation of Football History & Statistics, in 2013 (eighth place) and in 2019 (7th place).

Did You Know?

Jesus was born in Amadora, Lisbon, and finished his football formation with Sporting CP.
He made his top flight debut with Olhanense on loan from Sporting.
He amassed 166 games and 14 goals in the Primeira Liga.
He retired in 1990 at the age of 36.
He won the last edition of the UEFA Intertoto Cup with Braga, something never achieved by other Portuguese club.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Artur Jorge in Benfica history?

He was a Portuguese footballer who served as both a professional player and manager for the club. His career spans from his junior days at FC Porto to his retirement following an injury in the late 1970s.

What titles did he win with Benfica?

Artur Jorge secured four Primeira Liga championships during his time with the club between 1970 and 1975. These victories were achieved in the seasons of 1970–71, 1971–72, 1972–73, and 1974–75.

Why did his playing career end?

He retired from professional football after suffering a serious leg injury during the 1977–78 season at Belenenses. This health issue marked the conclusion of his time as an active player on the pitch.

What is his current status?

Artur Jorge passed away on February 22, 2024, ending his life after a significant career in Portuguese football. He is remembered today for his achievements during the golden era of the club's history.