Portugal have confirmed the appointment of Roberto Martinez as their new head coach, bringing links with Jose Mourinho to an end.
WHAT HAPPENED? The 49-year-old Spaniard was last in charge of the Belgium national team, with a six-year stint at the Red Devils brought to a close after suffering a group stage exit at the 2022 World Cup finals in Qatar.
THE BIGGER PICTURE: Martinez was able to guide Belgium to the top of the FIFA world rankings while working with a so-called ‘Golden Generation’, but major honours proved elusive for the coach, who previously spent time in club management with Swansea, Wigan and Everton.
AND WHAT’S MORE?: There had been suggestions that Portugal, who saw Euro 2016 winner Fernando Santos vacate his post after a the World Cup, would target Jose Mourinho as their new manager. The outspoken Portuguese tactician is, however, currently in charge of Serie A giants Roma and no job-share option has been presented to him.
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