Roberto Martinez enters Netherlands’ coaching race after Portugal departure

Roberto Martinez has emerged as a leading contender to become the Netherlands’ next manager, with talks reportedly taking place between the former Portugal coach and the Royal Netherlands Football Association.

Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf reports that Martinez is currently the preferred candidate for the position, following a change in the search for Ronald Koeman’s successor. The Dutch federation has been discussing its options for several weeks after Koeman resigned following the 2026 World Cup.

The Netherlands did not achieve the results expected at the tournament, prompting the federation to begin the process of appointing a new head coach. Michael Reiziger had been regarded as the strongest candidate until recently, while Louis van Gaal has also been linked with the vacancy after reportedly offering his services.

However, Dutch media coverage has shifted in the past few hours towards Martinez, who previously managed both Belgium and Portugal. De Telegraaf says negotiations with the Dutch federation are already under way.

Martinez, 56, is understood to have spoken to Niels de Jong, the Dutch federation’s sporting director, in Malaga. The discussions are expected to play an important part in determining whether the Spaniard becomes the next coach of the Netherlands.

Martinez officially left his role as Portugal manager in July 2026, after the team lost 1-0 to Spain and were eliminated in the last 16 of the 2026 World Cup. His departure ended his time in charge of Portugal and has now placed him in contention for another high-profile international position.

Before taking charge of Portugal, Martinez managed Belgium, guiding them through a period in which they were consistently regarded as one of Europe’s strongest national teams. His experience at international level is understood to be one of the factors behind the Dutch federation’s interest.

The former Wigan Athletic, Everton and Swansea City manager also has a close relationship with Jordi Cruyff, who is currently the general secretary of Ajax. Jordi Cruyff is also a supporter of the football philosophy associated with his father, Johan Cruyff.

That connection could be relevant as the Dutch federation considers the direction it wants its national team to take. The Netherlands have long been associated with a possession-based, attacking style, and Martinez’s potential appointment would come as the federation weighs experience, tactical approach and familiarity with the country’s football culture.

Reiziger remains part of the discussions, while Van Gaal is another name linked with the role. Nevertheless, Martinez is now reported to be at the front of the process.

The coming days are expected to be decisive, with the Dutch federation continuing talks before making a final decision on Koeman’s replacement.