KNVB discusses Roberto Martinez for Oranje head coach position

Nigel de Jong, representing the KNVB, has spoken with Roberto Martinez about the position of head coach of the Dutch national team. The Spanish coach, known for his previous role as coach of the Red Devils, reportedly met with the director of top football of the Dutch football association in Malaga.

For the first time since Ernst Happel's tenure, who led the Netherlands during the 1978 World Cup, there is serious consideration of a foreign coach for this prestigious position. Until now, the choices for head coach have always been Dutch trainers.

In addition to Martinez, Xavi is also mentioned as a possible candidate for the position. It remains unclear if the KNVB has held talks with the former Barcelona player and current coach of Al Sadd.

The discussions with Martinez are surprising as the trend in the Netherlands has always been to appoint a compatriot as head coach. This news has led to various reactions within the football community, with some advocating for a fresh perspective from a foreign coach.

The KNVB has not yet issued an official statement regarding the discussions with Martinez. The final decision on the new head coach is not yet on the agenda, but the talks indicate the ambitions of the Dutch football association.