BREAKING: Belgium appoints Rudi Garcia as new national team coach

The Belgian football federation on Friday named Frenchman Rudi Garcia as the new head coach of the national team, following the dismissal of Domenico Tedesco.

The 60-year-old, who has previously managed clubs like Napoli, Lyon, Roma, and Marseille, will be officially introduced to the press later in the day. Garcia also had a stint with Saudi club Al Nassr.

Belgium last week sacked Italian-German coach Tedesco following an early exit from the continental championship this summer, and sub-par recent performances in the Nations League.

Garcia’s latest effort in management at Napoli was an unsuccessful five-month stint in 2023 during the club’s disastrous post-Scudetto winning season.

The Frenchman originally made his name in coaching at French side Lille from 2008-2013.

Belgium kick off their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign with a trip to North Macedonia in June.

Previous coach Tedesco was appointed in February 2023 to replace Roberto Martinez and rebuild the squad as the country’s “golden generation” departed.

His appointment comes with the challenge of revitalizing the Red Devils after their underwhelming performance at Euro 2024.