Roberto Martinez appointed new Portugal national team coach
The Portugal football federation (FPF) have announced the appointment of Roberto Martinez as the new national team coach.
Roberto Martinez recently stepped down as Belgium national team coach following the 2022 World Cup group stage exit.
He spent six years coaching the Red Devils that boosted some of the most talented players in the World. The 49-year-old replaces Fernando Santos. Santos also quit his role after a World Cup quarterfinal elimination in the hands of Morocco.
“I appreciate the enthusiasm and ambition with which he (Roberto Martinez) received the invitation. This is an important moment for the national team,” said FPF President Fernando Gomes.
ROBERTO MARTINEZ EMBRACES NEW CHALLENGE
Martinez was officially introduced during a news conference on Monday.
“I am very happy to be here, I am delighted to be able to represent one of the most talented teams in the world,” Martinez said during a news conference.
“From the first time I met the board and the president I knew that this was the project I wanted. I understand that there are high expectations and goals. But I also understand that there is a large group of people working to meet our goals.”
CRISTIANO RONALDO’S FUTURE?
Martinez was also asked about the future of captain Cristiano Ronaldo in the national team setup.
“Decisions have to be made on the pitch. I’m not a coach who makes hasty decisions. I want to meet everyone, and starting today, I want to talk and get to know all the players,” he said.
“Cristiano (Ronaldo) is part of that list, he spent 19 years with the national team and deserves respect, let’s talk. From there, it’s up to me to make the best list for the European Championship. Tomorrow we’ll start working, getting to know all the players, and Cristiano is one of them. “
“We are also going to start a footballing process to try to get to know all the players that could be part of this selection. We are going to give all the players an opportunity and respect all those who are already in the squad,” added Martinez.
“It’s a process that we have to face naturally, with responsibility, and we’re also going to make important decisions for the team.”
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