The Belgian National Team Faces a Coach Change After Qatar 2022
The departure of the Spanish coach was confirmed shortly after Belgium’s elimination by Croatia at the World Cup in Qatar 2022. The end of an era in Belgian football appears to be on the horizon as many of the squad’s stars edge closer to their thirties, and the Red Devils’ latest campaign underscored a team still seeking a breakthrough beyond the group stages. In a moment of candor at a post-match briefing, the coach announced that he would not lead the national side again, signaling a transition period for Belgian football.
Why Roberto Martínez’s Time with Belgium Ends After Qatar 2022 and What Might Come Next
“That was my last match with this group, and it is an emotional moment for everyone involved,” the Spaniard told the club in the immediate aftermath of the defeat to Croatia. The statement came as the team faced a difficult exit and pointed to the end of a long chapter in Belgian football history. The decision leaves fans and analysts wondering about the future direction of the national team and who might assume the helm in the coming cycle.
Roberto Martínez’s managerial journey began in Wales, where he took the helm at Swansea City during the 2007/2008 season. His early trajectory showed signs of growth as he guided Swansea into the Second Division, narrowly missing the play-offs in the subsequent campaigns and delivering an impressive FA Cup run that culminated in a memorable round of 16 appearance. Such moments laid the groundwork for what would follow on bigger stages.
Martínez advanced to the Premier League with Wigan Athletic, navigating a difficult spell culminating in relegation in the 2012/2013 season. Yet the pinnacle of that period remains his FA Cup triumph against Manchester City in a final that fans still recount with pride. That victory stands as a defining achievement in his coaching career and a high watermark in a resume filled with notable ups and downs.
His next stop was Everton, where the project involved European competition exposure and the chance to develop a squad capable of challenging on multiple fronts. The early impact was tangible, with a strong Premier League debut season in 2013/2014 and a foray into European play. Over time, results fluctuated, and the club’s fortunes varied in the subsequent seasons, reflecting the volatile nature of top-flight football.
After parting ways with Everton and leaving a contract in place until 2019, Martínez took on the Belgian national team’s responsibilities—a role that proved transformative for a period. Belgium achieved a historic podium finish at the 2018 World Cup in Russia, demonstrating the depth of talent and strategic progress under his guidance. The current phase, however, represents a test of sustaining that momentum and adapting to a changing generation of players. Observers will be watching closely to see whether Martínez moves into club management again or explores new avenues within the sport, while Belgium prepares for the next era without the long-serving coach at the helm.
Attributions: Goal