Exclusive Pedro Martins Interview: Ederson's Goalkeeping Power & Raphinha's Anarchic Style

Pedro Martins: A Journey Through Football and Coaching

Pedro Martins reflects on his coaching career and the influences that have shaped his understanding of the game, particularly highlighting the remarkable skills of goalkeeper Ederson. Martins reminisces about their time together at Rio Ave, where they implemented innovative strategies that changed the way teams approached their gameplay.

Ederson's Game-Changing Abilities

During a match against Benfica, Martins described a pivotal moment where Ederson's goal-kick surprised their opponents. By positioning a striker far from the defensive line, they exploited Benfica’s high defense, resulting in a goal. "Nobody expected Ederson could put the ball there, but he scored, forcing Benfica to alter their strategy," said Martins.

Martins' Career Path and Influence

Martins recognizes that players like Ederson are in high demand in top clubs—goalkeepers who can leave their six-yard boxes and control the game. After Ederson's transfer to Benfica, Martins shifted his focus to his coaching career, which took him to Olympiakos and now Al Gharafa in Qatar, where he has been awarded manager of the year.

Coaching Philosophy and Evolution

Reflecting on his evolution as a coach, Martins credits Carlos Queiroz as a significant influence, emphasizing the need for adaptability in coaching methods. “The game is always changing. You need to be alert,” he notes, outlining how he studies formations and adapts to new tactical developments.

Inspiration from Top Teams

Martins admires Manchester City and Liverpool, stating, "I want to control the ball while having the ability to adapt to the opponent’s strength." He values different styles of play and believes in a balanced approach, combining possession with tactical adjustment.

The Impact of Raphinha

Another player who left a mark on Martins' coaching style is Raphinha, who he nurtured during his time at Vitoria Guimaraes. Martins recognized Raphinha's potential and helped him score 15 goals in a season, paving the way for his move to top clubs.

Creating Winning Teams in Greece and Qatar

While at Olympiakos, Martins rebuilt the team, ultimately winning the Greek title three times in a row. He managed to instill a winning mentality where every player cared about the outcome. Now, at Al Gharafa, he strives to create a competitive edge, revealing, "We are fighting in all competitions, and we extend professionalism across all departments."

Future Aspirations and Growth in Qatar

Martins sees potential in the Qatar football scene, thanks in part to players like Marco Verratti. He expresses interest in returning to England one day, believing firmly in the quality of football there. "England is the nation of football, and one day I must go because I love it there," he states passionately.

Conclusion: Ready for the Next Challenge

Having navigated the complexities of football management, Pedro Martins remains focused on evolving his coaching strategies to adapt to the modern game's demands while fostering a winning spirit in his teams.

With a passion for football that transcends his current responsibilities, Martins is certainly a name to watch as he continues to forge his path in the ever-evolving world of football.