Before Qatar's world cup, I predicted that Belgium wouldn’t be champions. I was right. Despite being heavily favoured by Oxford’s mathematical model, they didn’t even make it out of the group. With that, they have squandered their golden generation. The most responsible for the situation was their manager Roberto Martínez. But that didn’t stop him from getting another dream job. How on earth is that possible?

This week Portuguese football association shocked everybody. They have appointed a new manager. A manager that would get their very talented group of players to a result worth showing for.

Namely, since being European champions in 2016, Portugal isn’t getting anywhere near its potential.

There were some firm claims that José Mourinho was in a pole position for the job. That would be an exciting manoeuvre but A.S. Roma smartly didn’t let him go.

Therefore, in contrast to everything expected, the Portuguese football association named Roberto Martinez as Fernando Santos’s successor.

Of course, time will tell whether that was the right call. But did he earn it? Not by any chance.

The Spanish manager had probably the best Belgium generation of all time in his last managerial job on the plate but lifted no cup.

Yes, they were first on FIFA’s ranking table for some time, but every top-level manager should be judged on trophies. And Belgium’s cabinet remained empty.

Speaking of trophies looks like 1 FA Cup he won with Wigan in 2013 opens more doors than some might expect. It was a phenomenal achievement long ago which must have influenced the final decision. Because what else is there?

Listening to Roberto Martínez in interviews there is no doubt that he speaks like a true expert. Therefore, assuming that he convinced Portuguese decision-makers with his, let's say, sweet words of driving a project forward are justifiable.

However, everything above shouldn't be enough (I hope). A true reason should probably lie in someone really influential helping him in getting that job.

Read any managers’ or footballers' book you like, you will get practically the same message across all of them:

No matter how good or bad you are, you are nothing without your agent. They get you transfers/jobs/roles like you would simply not believe. And without them, you are at a huge disadvantage.

So, massive respect for Quadrans, an agency that manages Roberto Martínez’s career according to Transfermarkt. An agent responsible for the Spaniard is earning his/her money big time. He/She should definitely ask for a raise.

Nevertheless, with Cristiano Ronaldo or without him, Portugal has a very talented group of players together. Players that can achieve great things in the future.

Therefore, Roberto Martínez, please prove me and all other doubters wrong and achieve something more notable on an international level. Your recent experience and management suggest completely the opposite.

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