Belgium’s so-called Golden Generation’s final gambit was to win the World Cup in Qatar, but that plan backfired. After the group stage, the Red Devils were eliminated, which really affected Roberto Martnez, the national coach who will be leaving.
Martinez had been leading the team for Belgium since 2016, but he was unable to lead the group to a significant victory. The lowest moment came with the World Cup in Qatar. He admitted, “This was without a doubt the most traumatic moment of my time with Belgium. With me, we won every group game in the previous two final events. I have to admit that this new circumstance astonished me.”
Belgium battled to defeat Canada before falling to Morocco and being forced to a draw with Croatia. “We had a rough start, but I still believed we would succeed,” says Martinez. “We performed well in our third game, which we played against Croatia. Sadly, the ball simply refused to enter the goal,” he regretted.
Martinez makes it clear that he hasn’t yet spoken to anyone. “I have a contract with the Belgian Football Association that runs through the end of this year. I probably want to spend time with my family after my contract expires so we can rest. However, in theory, negotiations may begin as early as January, according to the coach,” he said.
Toby Alderweireld’ retirement plans
Toby Alderweireld has no plans to follow Eden Hazard’s example, according to related news. Unlike his 31-year-old countryman, Alderweireld is still ‘just’ available for the Belgian national team at the age of 33.
At a press conference on Thursday afternoon, the Antwerp defender stated, “I am satisfied with my own level. It’s difficult to say good-bye. Personally I believe I am capable of performing at the same level during the following European Championship. If needed, I’m here.”
Alderweireld made the decision to move on without taking any risks. “Since I have two kids, I had the talk there. In March, at the end of the season, you often take four or five weeks off. Less vacation time follows from that. My daughter is beginning to realise this but my wife is also alone and must manage everything. Then you talk about that rather than requesting permission to continue. That’s what we’ve done as well. Saying ‘yes’ reinforces my feelings,” he said.
