Portugal's manager Ferrando Santos has been in the spotlight after losing in the World Cup's last eight, and his successor is rumored to be "Madman" Molenu. Portuguese and Italian media have reported that the Portuguese Football Association has informally contacted Molenu and revealed specific details - he will be allowed to serve as Roma's coach at the same time.
It was revealed that the Portuguese Football Association considered Molenu as their first choice because he is undoubtedly the most successful coach in Portuguese history, having won 8 league titles, 2 Champions Leagues, 1 Europa League Cup and 1 UEFA Europa League, and has a wealth of experience in leading teams in major competitions. Even a non-traditional team like Roma managed to win the Eredivisie under Molenu's leadership, who is now affectionately known as "Mo Dad", showing his talent.
Even Ferrando Santos himself believes that Molenu is his ideal successor, stating in April last year, "Molenu is an excellent successor, my contract will expire in 2024 and he is my best replacement." With Ferrando Santos stepping down soon, it seems that Molenu will be the successor.
Molenu himself has expressed interest in coaching a national team, saying in 2020: "Yes, I would like to coach a national team, to experience the experience of leading a World Cup or Europa League, and to feel the atmosphere of such tournaments. Portugal? On the one hand I would love to because it's in my heart, on the other hand it's difficult because it's the country you were born in."
In order to convince Molenu, the Portuguese Football Association has even agreed to allow him to be the Roma manager at the same time. The remaining dilemma is whether or not the Roma club will allow Molenu to play both roles. There is still time for all three parties to explore this possibility as the Europa League qualifiers approach next March.
