​Roberto Martinez not quitting as Belgium manager

Forum 2 years ago

​Roberto Martinez not quitting as Belgium manager

Belgium boss Roberto Martinez has no intention of quitting his post after their Euro 2020 exit.

The number one ranked nation in the world were expected to go all the way at this summer's tournament, given it could be the last chance for their golden generation to win a major trophy.

Despite crashing out in the quarter finals to Italy by two goals to one in Munich, Martinez believes he is doing a very good job with the team.

The 47-year-old said on Thursday that he still has a lot to offer the national side.

Speaking in a press conference, he said: "The moment I feel I can no longer bring what it takes, I will be the first to throw in the towel.

"The disappointment after the game against Italy was great, but the focus is already on the World Cup qualifiers in September and the final four of the Nations League a month later.

"Only when I feel like I can't add anything more will I leave. There has been a lot of talk about my future: before, during and after the tournament. I always find it hard to talk about myself because this isn't about me.

"It's about creating the best possible conditions in which footballers can work and develop. I still see a lot of energy in this group and this project is still on the rise.

"This team is now ready to move on, to get back on the field. September can't come soon enough."

He added: "Nobody thinks about quitting. The players of this team immediately want to continue, do better.

"On the other hand, there are also no players that I am dissatisfied with and will therefore no longer call. The players have not failed at this tournament.

"There is a list of twelve young players who are already involved in the national team and four of them - Jeremy Doku, Zinho Vanheusden, Charles De Ketelaere and Yari Verschaeren - have played several times.

"The next twelve months are going to be very important for them, they have to dare to compete with the older guard.

"Our job is to put the young people in the right environment, to create conditions in which they can perform, after that you have to let football decide. As a coach you only have to bring young players into the team who are ready for it.

"Just being young and talented is not enough. We must support and help develop those talents, work on quality. Talents have been lost in the past.'

He finished regarding his assistant coach Thierry Henry: "At the moment, no decision has been made about a possible collaboration in the future.

"Much will depend on his personal situation, whether or not he is working for a club.

"But it is clear that the relationship between him and the national team is very good."