Roberto Martínez showed some frustration over the criticism aimed at him.
Since taking charge of Portugal, Martínez hasn’t had a bad run. After winning all their matches in the 2024 Euro qualifiers, the team reached the quarter-finals of the main tournament and also made it to the Nations League semifinals. Still, Martínez hasn’t been free from criticism. The Spanish coach is somewhat annoyed but chooses not to dwell on it, focusing instead on winning trophies in upcoming competitions.
Martínez took over as Portugal coach in January 2023. Under his guidance, Portugal won all 10 matches in the 2024 Euro qualifiers. However, in the main event’s quarter-finals, they were eliminated by France in a tiebreaker, ending the campaigns of stars like Cristiano Ronaldo and Bruno Fernandes.
Portugal will face Germany in the Nations League semifinals on Wednesday. Before the match, Martínez expressed his irritation about the criticism in an interview with Sport TV Portugal.
“The national team belongs to everyone, and together we are stronger. I won 10 out of 10 matches in the 2024 Euro qualifiers, yet I faced criticism.”
“The discussions around the national team are ongoing, but paying attention to that would mean I’m not doing my job. I know my work is open to everyone’s opinion.”
Portuguese media reports claim that before the 2026 World Cup qualifiers begin, the Portuguese Football Federation might replace Martínez with a new coach—even if Portugal wins the Nations League, Martínez might not keep his position.
However, the 51-year-old coach, who has won 20 out of 28 matches with Portugal, remains unconcerned about his future.
“My focus is on giving my best, working with total commitment. I have 10 years of experience coaching at the international level. My goal is to win every competition. The ultimate goal is to win the World Cup.”
For now, Martínez’s full attention is on the Nations League.
“This is a special moment. Germany is a great opponent for World Cup preparation. Like all semifinalists (Germany, Spain, France), we have the same kind of talent.”
If Portugal beats Germany in the semifinals, they will face Spain or France in the Nations League final as the reigning champions of the tournament’s first edition.
