Belgium is out of the 2022 World Cup and after its shocking campaign manager Roberto Martinez has announced that he is stepping down.
The Red Devils needed to beat Croatia in a crucial game today to advance to the round of 16, but could only manage a 0-0 draw despite putting in their best performance of the tournament.
Martinez announced after the match that he will not return as Belgium manager after the tournament, but that was always his plan, Sky Sports reports.
The Spanish coach stated when asked by Sky Sports if that was his last game with Belgium: “Yes, that was my last game. Six years have passed.
“I arrived with the clear idea of qualifying for the 2018 World Cup. So we were so committed to the project and we won a bronze medal. I am very proud of these players. It’s been amazing.
“It has been six years in which we have been able to do everything you want to do. The team has played and has brought real joy to the people. But this is the time for me to accept [it is over]. I don’t resign. It’s the end of my contract”.
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Martínez is a highly respected manager and will be on the rosters of many clubs now that he is available. The World Cup break has allowed many teams across Europe to review their coaching positions and some are likely to strike after the break once things go wrong.
The Spanish coach could be an attractive prospect for the likes of West Ham and Everton, should their situations not improve, and it would not be a surprise to see Martinez on a Premier League bench in the near future.
