Roberto Martínez open to KNVB talks over Netherlands vacancy
The former Belgium and Portugal coach has not been contacted about succeeding Ronald Koeman, while his representative doubts whether an agreement would be financially possible.
UnconfirmedThis report is based on Dutch media speculation and has not been confirmed by the clubs or players involved.
Roberto Martínez would be willing to discuss the vacant Netherlands job if the KNVB makes an approach, according to Voetbal International. The Dutch federation has been searching for a new national-team coach for several weeks following Ronald Koeman’s departure.
Martínez’s lawyer, Jesse De Preter, said there has been no contact with the KNVB and that talks are not currently taking place. However, he told Voetbal International: “If Nigel de Jong calls, we will talk.” Martínez’s name had earlier surfaced in De Telegraaf, with Arne Slot, Louis van Gaal and Michael Reiziger also mentioned during the search.
De Preter nevertheless played down the prospect of a deal. He believes the KNVB traditionally prefers a Dutch coach and suspects there would be a considerable gap between the parties’ financial expectations. The lawyer, who has worked with Martínez since 2016, said the pair discussed plans for the coach’s future last week.
An appointment would make Martínez the first foreign coach of the Netherlands men’s team in 48 years. Ernst Happel was the last non-Dutch manager to hold the role, leaving after the 1978 World Cup. Martínez has previously coached Belgium and Portugal at international level; his Portugal side were eliminated by Spain in the last 16 of the most recent World Cup.
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- Roberto Martínez staat open voor gesprek met KNVB— Voetbal International
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