Belgium's coaching crossroads: Garcia out, van Bommel looms

The Rode Duivels have confirmed the departure of Rudi Garcia after an 18‑month spell, while behind the scenes Mark van Bommel is surfacing as the leading candidate to take over. Garcia left despite meeting most sporting targets, including a World Cup quarter‑final run that ended at the hands of Spain, the eventual champions.

Garcia kept Belgium in League A of the Nations League and guided the side to the quarter‑finals of the WK, where they were eliminated by Spanje. Those achievements fulfilled the majority of the federation’s performance criteria.

Le Soir reported that the results were not enough to fully convince Vincent Mannaert, the sport director, who no longer saw Garcia as the long‑term leader for the Rode Duivels. The official statement says both parties mutually agreed to part ways, yet the explanation has failed to satisfy everyone.

There is a growing impression that the Belgian FA prefers to chart a different course, suggesting the mutual decision may mask a strategic shift rather than a simple split.

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Mark van Bommel, the Dutch former player, has been without a club for two years since his departure from Antwerp, but he now appears unusually close to a new challenge with the national side.

During his tenure at Antwerp, van Bommel oversaw a notably successful period, demonstrating that a clear structure and strong personality can elevate a team to a higher level.

According to Le Soir, van Bommel is currently the outspoken favourite to replace Garcia, although the federation still intends a final round on the market, which appears largely procedural.

The role of national team coach differs markedly from club management: it involves less daily training work, greater emphasis on selection policy, and a focus on performance at major tournaments.

Van Bommel’s profile aligns with what Belgium seeks—a charismatic leader with clear ideas and experience handling a mix of established stars and emerging talents. Schrijf je nu in voor de Voetbalkrant nieuwsbrief.