On Monday, it was revealed that Roberto Martinez has replaced Fernando Santos as the head coach of the Portugal national men’s soccer team.
Following Santos’ dismal 2022 FIFA World Cup campaign, the former Everton and Belgium head coach was heavily linked to replace AS Roma boss Jose Mourinho. Morocco eliminated Portugal in the quarterfinal round.
Despite delivering a subpar performance and being eliminated from the World Cup in the group stage, Martinez assumes the reins after having coached a Belgian golden generation team that reigned atop the Fifa world rankings from September 2018 to February 2021.
However, the Spaniard coach was unable to produce a trophy for the Red Devils, resulting in his resignation in December following a disappointing world cup in Qatar.
Um new 𝗟𝗶́𝗱𝗲𝗿 ao servico de Portugal: bem-vindo, Mister Roberto Martínez! #VesteABandeir
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The arrival of a new Leader: Coach Roberto Martinez, welcome! #WearTheFlag picture on Twitter: TCDe3yzJr9
— Portugal (@selecaoportugal) January 9, 2023
“I am thrilled to be present. Martinez stated, “I am thrilled to represent one of the national teams with the best talent in the world.”
“From the moment I spoke with the federation’s president, I knew this was a sporting endeavor that would interest me. I am aware that there are high expectations and ambitious goals, but the federation is comprised of a talented group of individuals, and I am optimistic that we can achieve those goals collectively.”
Martinez is scheduled to start for Portugal against Liechtenstein in a UEFA Euro qualifying match on March 23.
»Portugal’s new coach is Roberto Martinez«