The Belgian Football Federation have released a statement in regards to the massive criticism they have been receiving both in-person and on social media after Red Devils manager Roberto Martinez snubbed Roma midfielder Radja Nainggolan for this summer’s World Cup. Here is the full statement:
“Our national team manager, Roberto Martinez, announced yesterday his long-awaited pre-selection for the World Cup in Russia. The pre-selection was not well-received by everyone. The Federation understands this and it’s further proof that the supporters of the Red Devils are passionate and feel involved with their team. At the same time, though, the Federation has extended the contract of our national team manager last week — we did so because we find him to be the right person to lead the Red Devils. That means that he is the one who makes the technical and tactical decisions in terms of management, training, and, of course, selection of the team for international matches. We are counting on our technical staff to take the Red Devils as far as possible in Russia.”
“We call on our ‘twelfth man’ to join the Red Devils as being one unit. Both the players and staff are motivated to have a successful World Cup. This can only be achieved with the support of all of our fans. This is the only way we can fulfill our common goal, which is to have an excellent World Cup in Russia.”
