Martinez admits running up against a “psychological barrier” to win a title
Roberto Martinez, Belgium coach, recognizes a part of psychology in the failures of Belgium at the gates of a title, as was the case in the last League of Nations. Even if he notes clear progress against France.
Belgium’s golden generation has failed to win a League of Nations title yet again. Third at the 2018 World Cup, eliminated in the quarterfinals of Euro 2021, the selection fell against France (3-2) in the semi-finals of the Final Four. Roberto Martinez, coach of the Red Devils since 2016, sees it as a part of the mental.
“You have to be much superior to win a trophy”
“We are aware of this and this is where we have oriented our work at the moment, he confides in an interview with the Cadena Ser. There is a great psychological barrier. You have to be a lot superior to win the first trophy and then things change. “
Despite this, the Spanish technician sent real progress within his team. The first half against France (Belgium led 2-0) confirms his feelings. “Being able to handle the moment is very important,” he continues. “The first half was a radical change from the game we had in 2018. I think the 45 minutes gives you an idea of our level of football. , but in the second, we have to improve this aspect. “
“The players were critical, but that is understandable”
This optimism did not raise some questions among its players. “They were critical, but that is understandable, continues the former Everton coach. When you fail, it creates a lot of expectations. After a few days, common sense arrives and we see that the Belgian team is there among the four best, almost qualified for the World Cup… “
Under contract until the 2022 World Cup, Martinez has not decided on his future at the head of the selection. “No, I haven’t decided yet,” he ended. “Whenever I talk about my future, I usually don’t clarify it. I’ve learned that the emotional part of one national team carries over to another. level than what happens in a club. It’s nice to have a big date like that. “