Roberto Martinez has confirmed that he will remain as Belgium’s head coach despite his team’s poor performance at Euro 2020 and constant speculation linking him to a return to club management.
The former Everton boss has been named as a potential replacement for a number of outgoing managers at high-profile clubs this summer, with links only strengthened after the Red Devils suffered a shocking quarter-final exit at this summer’s European Championships.
Despite rumors that his time at the helm in Belgium may soon end, Martinez has now confirmed that he will continue in the role and that he enjoys the Nations League returning in October.
“There has been a lot of talk about my future, before, during and after the tournament,” he said according to HLN. “I always find it difficult to talk about myself because this is not about me. It is about creating the best possible conditions where football players can work and develop.
“I still see a lot of energy in this group and this project is still growing. This team is now ready to move on, to get back on the field. September cannot come soon enough. Afterwards there is the Nations League.”
Belgium’s failure at yet another international tournament has led many to suggest that their so-called “golden generation” has missed their chance to secure major awards.
Roberto Martinez’s side failed to secure major international glory once again / Quality Sport Images / Getty Images
But Martinez believes he will be able to retain the core of the group and does not expect any forthcoming announcements from him on international pensions.
“No one is thinking of quitting,” he said. “The players in this team immediately appear and want to continue to do better. On the other hand, there are no players that I am dissatisfied with and therefore will no longer call. The players have not failed in this tournament.”
Looking to the future, Martinez says he is excited about the next harvest of Belgian players who are already making a name for themselves with the national team, adding that the next 12 months will be a key time for their development.
“There is a list of twelve young players who are already involved in the national team,” he added. “Four of them have already tasted several times: Jeremy Doku, Zinho Vanheusden, Charles De Ketelaere and Yari Verschaeren.
Thierry Henry’s future is still unclear / KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV / Getty Images
“The next 12 months will be very important for them, they must dare to compete with the older guard. Our job is to put the young people in the right environment, create conditions for them to be able to perform, after you have to let football decide. “
With Martinez moving to clear up any speculation about his own future, attention was soon drawn to his assistant Thierry Henry, although he could not give such assurances that the Arsenal legend would remain in his current role.
“Currently, no decision has been made about a possible collaboration in the future,” he continued. “Much depends on his personal situation, whether he works for a club or not. But it is obvious that the relationship between him and the national team is very good. ”
