If the KNVB wishes to hold talks with Roberto Martínez regarding the vacant position of national team manager, the Spaniard is open to a discussion. However, the chances of the 53-year-old coach actually taking the helm of the Dutch national team appear slim. Since Ronald Koeman’s departure, the KNVB has been searching hard for a new national team manager for weeks. The names of Arne Slot, Louis van Gaal and Michael Reiziger have been mentioned, but Martínez’s name has now also been mentioned in De Telegraaf. Jesse De Preter, Martínez’s lawyer, states that his client has not yet held any talks with the KNVB. Nor are any currently taking place. ‘If Nigel de Jong calls, we’ll enter into discussions,’ said the coach’s representative. De Preter, however, sees little chance of success from the outset. ‘Traditionally, the KNVB opts for a Dutch coach, and financially I suspect the expectations are very far apart. I cannot see how this could result in a deal.’ De Preter and Martínez have been working together since 2016, and last week the two made plans together regarding his future. Should the KNVB and Martínez reach an agreement after all, the Oranje will have a foreign head coach for the first time in 48 years. Ernst Happel was the last foreigner to take charge of the Dutch national team. He stepped down after the 1978 World Cup. Martínez previously managed Belgium and Portugal. He had a disappointing World Cup with the Portuguese: Portugal were knocked out in the round of 16 by Spain, who went on to become world champions.   submitted by   /u/Roller95 [link]   [comments]