Roberto Martinez has emerged as a surprise candidate for the Netherlands managerial position, with the Royal Dutch Football Association reportedly holding talks with the 53-year-old Spaniard. The Dutch are seeking a successor to Ronald Koeman, who resigned in June following the team's exit from the World Cup.
According to De Telegraaf, technical director Nigel de Jong has met with Martinez to discuss the role. If appointed, Martinez would become the first foreign manager of the Netherlands in 48 years, since Austrian Ernst Happel led them to the 1978 World Cup final. Martinez is noted as a friend of Jordi Cruyff and an admirer of Johan Cruyff's football philosophy.
This potential appointment would mark Martinez's third international management role. He previously managed Belgium, leading them to a third-place finish in the 2018 World Cup, but they were eliminated in the group stage four years later. With Portugal, he won the 2024-25 Nations League but resigned in July after their World Cup last-16 defeat to Spain. His tenure with Portugal faced scrutiny over tactics and player selections.
The Netherlands' pursuit of Martinez follows rejections from several domestic candidates. Arne Slot, who recently left Liverpool, was in negotiations for the role but withdrew, stating he prefers to remain in club management where he can train players daily, which is not as feasible with a national team. Slot clarified that his withdrawal was not due to salary or contract length, but rather timing.
