Netherlands Manager Search: KNVB Meets Roberto Martinez

Roberto Martinez Netherlands, KNVB talks reported

From Portugal To Oranje? Martinez in frame for Netherlands job. Dutch FA reportedly in talks with Roberto Martinez for manager role.

Roberto Martinez emerges as KNVB Target following World Cup knockout...

The Dutch FA, the KNVB, are said to be in discussions with Spanish coach Roberto Martinez, according to reports in the Netherlands.

The Netherlands have been manager-less since Ronald Koeman stepped down after the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Oranje were knocked out in the round of 32 by Morocco, losing on penalties.

Koeman’s exit left the KNVB in a rush to find a replacement. The Dutch FA reportedly reached out to Peter Bosz, Erik ten Hag, Arne Slot, Michael Reiziger, and even Pep Guardiola, but none of those discussions went far.

Per De Telegraaf, the KNVB has now spoken with Spanish coach Roberto Martinez. The 53-year-old met with director Nigel de Jong in Malaga to discuss taking over the vacant role.

Martinez was in charge of Portugal at the World Cup. The former European champions finished second in their group and knocked out 2018 finalists Croatia in the round of 32. Their run ended in the round of 16 with a loss to eventual winners Spain. Martinez stepped down the next day.

At EURO 2024, Portugal made it to the quarter-finals under Martinez. They were eliminated there by France, losing 5-3.

Across 45 games with Portugal, Martinez posted 32 wins and 7 losses.

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The manager from Catalonia led Belgium from 2016 to 2022, guiding them to a bronze medal at the 2018 World Cup in Russia. Before that, he managed in England with Everton, Wigan Athletic, and Swansea City. He won the FA Cup with Wigan in 2013 and took Swansea to the League One title in 2007.