Belgium moves fast, eyes Dutchman as ideal Garcia successor

In the bustling headquarters of the Belgian football association, officials gathered around a glowing screen displaying the latest bulletin at 15:28, where De reported that the Dutchman Mark van Bommel is being hailed as the ideal successor to Rudi Garcia as coach of the Red Devils.

The Belgians want to act quickly after the departure of the Spanish trainer and have now set their sights on the Dutchman.

Earlier on Monday it emerged that the Red Devils will no longer continue with Rudi Garcia as national coach; his contract ran until 31 July 2026, but the Belgian FA decided not to extend it.

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De now describes the Dutchman as the "top favourite" for the job. Van Bommel has not responded to the alleged interest himself, but several sources have confirmed the report to the newspaper.

In Belgium Van Bommel has built a strong reputation, having led Royal Antwerp in 2023 to the first championship since 1957, a title secured on the very last matchday of the Belgian competition.

The 49‑year‑old former midfielder played for PSV, FC Barcelona and the Netherlands national team before turning to coaching.

His coaching résumé includes a 2014 assistant role with the Netherlands under‑17 side, a 2018 appointment as head coach of PSV, subsequent spells at VfL Wolfsburg and Royal Antwerp, and his departure from Antwerp in 2024, leaving him clubless.