Garcia and Belgium part ways as contract ends after World Cup

Rudi Garcia and the KBVB have mutually terminated their collaboration with immediate effect, after his contract expired following the World Cup. The Belgian Football Association announced the split on Monday at 15:44, confirming that both sides decided not to continue together.

The announcement clarified that Garcia’s contract had run out after the World Cup and that the decision to end the partnership was taken jointly by the coach and the Belgian federation.

Garcia posted on his social media: "After talks with the Belgian Football Association we have decided to end my collaboration with the Red Devils." The statement was made shortly after the official announcement.

In the same communication, the former coach highlighted Mark van Bommel as a name being mentioned as a possible successor to his role with the national side.

Reflecting on his tenure, Garcia said: "I leave Belgium in League A of the Nations League, and in the top eight of the world, with one of the best national teams in the world. Only Spain, the fresh world champion, against whom we were the only side to score in eight matches, prevented us from going further in the most prestigious competition."

He also expressed gratitude, stating: "I want to thank the entire player group, sporting director Vincent Mannaert and also the supporters who supported us during this World Cup, even in the middle of the night from Europe."

Looking ahead, Garcia added: "I am ready for a new project, with new ambitions and a new role within a club. I wish Belgium much success with the generational change that I have gladly helped to start."

Garcia’s departure opens the way for the KBVB to begin a search for a new head coach, with Mark van Bommel emerging as a leading candidate, while the former coach prepares to pursue his next professional challenge.