Report: Arsenal interested in Belgium boss Roberto Martinez

Add as preferred source on Google

Belgium boss Roberto Martinez is on a long list of managers that Arsenal hope to speak to as they look to appoint Unai Emery’s successor, according to a report from the Daily Mirror.

The Daily Mirror reports that the Gunners could interview as many as 10 candidates for the position. Patrick Vieira, Paulo Sousa and Mikel Arteta are reportedly on their shortlist.

But another name that the Daily Mirror suggests is in the running is Martinez. The report suggests that the 46-year-old is one of the names that the club hopes to speak to.

Martinez is an intriguing option. The Spaniard’s attention will largely be on Belgium’s Euro 2020 preparations, so he will surely be a target for after next summer’s tournament.

That would suggest that Arsenal will have to stick by an interim boss – presumably Freddie Ljungberg – for the rest of the season if they hope to appoint Martinez.

Martinez – who had Thierry Henry as his assistant for some time – is likely to be a name that divides Arsenal supporters.

He enjoyed success with both Swansea City and Wigan Athletic – winning the FA Cup with the latter – but  had a mixed time at Everton. The Toffees finished fifth in his first season, but then registered two bottom-half finishes, with Martinez leaving just before his third season with the club concluded.

Belgium are one of international football’s heavyweights. But Martinez’s doubters will probably suggest that anything less than winning a major trophy would be a failure given the quality that Belgium currently possess.

However, he would arrive with experience of managing top players. And his stock will certainly be high if he can lead his side to Euro 2020 glory next summer.