The Azerbaijan Football Federation (AFFA) has parted ways with coach Fernando Santos following a disastrous spell that ended with a crushing 5–0 defeat to Iceland in the opening match of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. The decision was reached by mutual consent, but it was widely expected, as Santos had failed to win a single game during his tenure, leaving Azerbaijan without momentum or confidence. According to AFFA’s Secretary General Jahanhir Farajullayev, the coach’s approach was “unacceptable” and his system had failed both players and supporters.
Santos, who previously enjoyed great success with Portugal by winning Euro 2016 and the 2019 Nations League, has struggled to replicate those highs in recent years. On January 24, 2023, he was appointed head coach of Poland, but his reign was short-lived as poor results in the Euro 2024 qualifying campaign led to his dismissal on September 13, 2023. Just a few months later, on January 9, 2024, he took charge of Turkish giants Beşiktaş. Once again, the stint ended prematurely, as he was sacked on April 13, 2024, following a six-match winless run.
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Despite these setbacks, Santos was handed another opportunity on June 12, 2024, when Azerbaijan appointed him as their new head coach on a three-and-a-half-year deal. The hope was that his international experience could guide the team towards Euro 2028. However, the reality was harsh. In eleven matches in charge, Santos failed to register a single win, collecting just two draws and suffering nine defeats. His Azerbaijan side not only struggled to compete but also conceded heavily, culminating in the humiliating loss to Iceland that sealed his fate.
With Santos gone, the Azerbaijan Football Federation has turned to Ayxan Abbasov, the current U21 coach, to step in as interim manager. He will lead the senior side in their upcoming World Cup qualifier against Ukraine. The federation now faces the difficult task of rebuilding confidence and finding a long-term coach who can reshape the national team’s direction.
For Santos, this is yet another chapter in a steep decline since his Portugal triumphs. His recent managerial journey has been defined by short, disappointing spells, leaving questions about whether he can rediscover the stability and tactical sharpness that once made him one of Europe’s most respected coaches.