“We appreciate the enthusiasm with which [Roberto Martínez] received the invitation from the FPF. I wish you all the luck, and I am certain that you will do everything to place the selection of all of us in the major international competitions”, said the president of the FPF, Fernando Gomes.

Fernando Gomes revealed that a conversation with Roberto Martínez was enough to realize that he was “faced with a coach with the desired profile” by the FPF and with the ability to guide the team to the advanced stages of major competitions.

“Roberto Martínez led Belgium to the top spot in the world rankings, with a team capable of beating any opponent. We believe that Portugal should always be in the final stages of major competitions, that is to say, be at least in the semi-finals of any competition”, he said.