Belgium have moved on from Rudi Garcia. Mark van Bommel will be the new national team manager after the 2026 World Cup, according to Belgian newspaper Nieuwsblad. The Dutch coach, known for his attacking style, has signed until Euro 2028 to lead a side featuring Thibaut Courtois and Romelu Lukaku.
Who is Belgium’s new manager?
Mark van Bommel needs no introduction to Belgian fans. The former Netherlands midfielder, capped 79 times between 2000 and 2012, starred at PSV Eindhoven, FC Barcelona and Bayern Munich. He also reached the 2010 World Cup final with the Dutch.
His coaching career began in 2018 as Australia assistant, before spells at PSV Eindhoven and VfL Wolfsburg. After a treble with Royal Antwerp in 2023, he was sacked in 2024. Now without a club for two years, he lands the Belgium job until Euro 2028.
Why is this appointment a surprise?
Belgium are banking on an attacking profile to revive a golden generation. Van Bommel replaces Rudi Garcia after a 2026 World Cup where the Red Devils reached the quarter-finals, losing only to eventual champions Spain 2-1 on July 10, 2026. His approach contrasts with Garcia’s more cautious style.
Belgium’s last result was that Spain defeat. Their recent form? Three wins, two losses in five games, with back-to-back defeats. Midfielder Amadou Onana remains sidelined for now, a blow to the squad.
What’s van Bommel’s first test?
The Dutchman opens his reign at Italy on September 25, 2026, an away trip to kick off his tenure. Then it’s Turkey before a home showdown with France, now led by Zinédine Zidane, on October 5, 2026. A tough start for a manager under pressure to deliver.
Belgium, rebuilding after the 2026 World Cup, are pinning their hopes on van Bommel to rediscover title-winning ways. His first real challenge? Handling the heat against transitional sides like Italy or France, where Zidane took charge in June 2026.
