Roberto Martínez: A Journey from Wigan to World Cup Dreams
Roberto Martínez stands with a warm smile in the hallway of the Portuguese federation's base in Oeiras, near Lisbon. Trophies gleam in cases, including the recent Nations League victory, but one cup remains absent—the World Cup. With just 75 days until the tournament begins, Martínez leads Portugal into their final pre-tournament friendlies against the USA and Mexico, embracing the high expectations surrounding his team.
From Unknown to Leader: Martínez's Unlikely Path
In the summer of 1995, a 21-year-old Martínez arrived in Wigan as a complete unknown, having made only one appearance for Real Zaragoza and speaking no English. He faced the Third Division, where the style of play was foreign to him. "There is fear," he recalls, "but my attitude was always: 'Why not?'" This mindset propelled him through a career that included stints at Wigan, Motherwell, and Swansea, culminating in an FA Cup win as Wigan's head coach in 2013.
Martínez never planned to become a coach, but his curiosity about football processes began early. "I was always someone who asks why," he says, recalling childhood conversations with his father about tactical spaces. After six years with Belgium, where he managed the world's top-ranked team, he took over Portugal in January 2023, finding a nation he describes as a "football school" with a rich talent pipeline.
Building a Squad: The Role of Cristiano Ronaldo and New Talent
Martínez emphasizes the importance of Cristiano Ronaldo, who has dedicated 21 years to the national team. "It's so special to have a player like him," Martínez notes, highlighting Ronaldo's unwavering commitment despite his age. He dismisses calls for Ronaldo to step aside, arguing that the forward's recent form—25 goals in 30 games—earns his place through daily performance.
The coach has also integrated young talents like Pedro Neto and João Neves, praising Portugal's development system. "The level of development here is exemplary," he says, underscoring the blend of experience and youth in his squad.
Strategic Preparations and Team Culture
Martínez has meticulously planned Portugal's World Cup preparations, including friendlies at altitude to simulate tournament conditions. He stresses the need for a supportive team culture where players can take risks without fear of failure. "A risk can decide a World Cup," he asserts, pointing to strong contenders like Argentina and France.
He adopts a unique approach to squad selection, opting for a list of 26 players with four on standby privately to avoid the trauma of public cuts. This method, he believes, fosters positivity and unity.
Embracing Hope and Numerology
Reflecting on Portugal's history, Martínez recalls coach Otto Glória's 1966 mantra: "Let us dream." He encourages fans to embrace hope, noting symbolic connections like the 60th anniversary of Eusébio's 1966 World Cup performance. "It's all sixes," he says with a laugh, referencing his birthdate of July 13. "Why not dream?"
As Portugal gears up for the 2026 World Cup, Martínez's blend of strategic planning, player management, and optimistic vision aims to turn dreams into reality on the global stage.
