• Premier League

Martinez reveals he rejected Liverpool offer

ESPN staff
August 21, 2012
Roberto Martinez believes in his project at Wigan © PA Photos
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Roberto Martinez has revealed he rejected the Liverpool job in favour of staying at Wigan Athletic.

Martinez met with Liverpool owners Fenway Sports Group in Miami over the summer and was expected to be named as Kenny Dalglish's successor. But the club's interest appeared to cool and they eventually appointed Swansea's Brendan Rodgers as manager.

But, in an interview with L'Equipe, the Spaniard has revealed he was given the chance to take the Anfield hotseat only to decide to stay at Wigan and sign a new contract due to the special relationship he has with owner Dave Whelan.

"We must educate people," Martinez said. "In five or six years, we [Wigan] reap the benefits. Maybe I won't be there then. But this is not why I stayed, when Liverpool made me an offer.

"I stayed because my chairman is unique. This summer, we sat down together. He had thought about the future of the club, I'd done the same.

"He knew that I had spoken with other clubs. But he is so persuasive ... I extended my contract for three years.

"He wants to take the club to the next level. I know it will be difficult, but it excites me a lot."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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