Roberto Martinez has announced that he will step down as Belgium national team manager after their shock World Cup exit earlier today.
Belgium's group stage exit was confirmed after a 0-0 draw against Croatia in which another former Toffee, Romelu Lukaku, missed several gilt-edged chances to win the tie and send Martinez' men through to the round-of-16. The top-ranked European side opened their World Cup campaign with an unconvincing 1-0 win against Canada before losing to Morocco on Sunday.
The Red Devils' quick-fire campaign in Qatar was shrouded in controversy and discontent from the off, with reports of fallouts within the camp after Kevin de Bruyne admitted his country had 'no chance' of winning the World Cup because they were 'too old'. Defender Jan Vertonghen then sarcastically used the same remarks when explaining why his side had been so impotent in front of goal.
READ MORE: Roberto Martinez issues blunt response to Belgium future question after World Cup exit
Speaking shortly after the game, Martinez insisted he has not resigned but his contract - which was set to run out when Belgium's World Cup campaign ended - would not be renewed. The former Blues boss tried to remain positive but insisted his time was up.
"Yes, that was my last game. It has been six years," he told reporters. "I arrived with the clear idea of qualifying for the 2018 World Cup. Then we became so engaged with the project and won a bronze medal. I'm so proud of these players. It has been amazing.
"It has been six years where we've been able to do everything you want to do. The team has played and given people real joy. But this is the time for me to accept [it is over]. I don't resign. It's the end of my contract.
"Since 2018 I had many opportunities to leave and take jobs at club level, but I wanted to stay loyal."
A statement by the Belgian FA upon the announcement of Martinez's departure read: "We are extremely disappointed after the early exit of our national team at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar because we have failed and thereby let down the people of Belgium who supported our team all the way through.
"An era and a cycle have come to an end. Today the ways of our coach Roberto Martinez and the Royal Belgian FA will part.
"We are very grateful and proud that we have worked with Roberto Martinez for more than six years."
READ NEXT
Everton may have found ideal Dominic Calvert-Lewin alternative as shortlist drawn up
Romelu Lukaku shows frustration after Belgium World Cup exit with violent outburst
West Ham 'exploring' Michael Keane deal with Everton defender tipped as potential replacement
Everton star Idrissa Gueye sends warning to England and praises former Liverpool transfer target
'An unbelievable feeling' - Everton midfielder made World Cup history in his home city
