Fernando Santos

Fernando Santos is a name firmly associated with success in world football, both at the club and international levels. This Portuguese coach, a former footballer, continues to inspire fans in 2025 as the head coach of the Azerbaijan national team. His career, filled with triumphs and strategic brilliance, makes him one of the key figures in modern football.

Born on October 10, 1954, in Lisbon, Portugal, Fernando Santos began his career as a defender, starting in the youth team of Benfica in 1966. During his playing career, he represented Marítimo and Estoril-Praia, retiring at the age of 30. After his playing days, Santos earned a degree in electrical engineering, earning him the nickname "The Engineer." However, his true calling was coaching, where he established himself as an exceptional strategist.

Santos began his coaching career in 1988 with Estoril, but his major success came with leading Portuguese clubs—Porto, Sporting, and Benfica. With Porto, he secured five major titles, including the Portuguese league championship. In the 2000s, Santos coached in Greece, managing AEK Athens and PAOK, where he earned respect for his tactical flexibility. In 2010, he took charge of the Greek national team, guiding them to the 2014 World Cup and the 2012 European Championship.

Santos achieved his greatest fame as the head coach of the Portugal national team from 2014 to 2022. Under his leadership, Portugal won their first-ever European Championship in 2016 and the UEFA Nations League in 2019. His tactical approach, emphasizing discipline and a balance between defense and attack, unlocked the potential of stars like Cristiano Ronaldo. In 2024, Santos took on a new challenge as the head coach of Azerbaijan, aiming to elevate the country’s football on the international stage.

Santos is renowned for his charisma and ability to adapt to different football cultures. His management style combines analytical precision with an emotional connection to players. Despite criticism for a conservative approach in his later years with Portugal, he remains a respected figure whose expertise is in high demand.

In 2025, Fernando Santos continues to lead the Azerbaijan national team, striving for new achievements. His appointment has sparked enthusiasm among fans, who hope "The Engineer" will bring stability and success. Santos’ career is a story of perseverance, professionalism, and a passion for football, inspiring a new generation of coaches and players.