Garcia blames medical staff for jeopardising Belgium’s World Cup hopes

Former Belgian national team coach Rudi Garcia, 62, reflected on the WK 2026 in a candid interview with Le Soir, warning that the campaign for België was jeopardised by medical shortcomings. The Frenchman’s remarks contrast his past ambitions for the Red Devils with the reality of mishandled injuries.

Voormalig Belgisch bondscoach Rudi Garcia (62) heeft bij Le Soir teruggeblikt op het WK 2026. He revisited the tournament’s planning and the expectations placed on the squad.

De Fransman Rudi Garcia stressed that his perspective was shaped by his experience leading the national side. His French background, noted in the interview, adds a distinct viewpoint to the Belgian football discourse.

Medical staff under fire

Garcia directed sharp criticism at the medical staff of the Rode Duivels. He argued that the support structure failed to protect players during the crucial stages of the WK.

He said: “Bepaalde blessures en ziektes werden niet goed behandeld.” The statement underscores his frustration with the handling of player health issues.

The contrast between Garcia’s earlier optimism for België’s World Cup prospects and his later condemnation of the medical department highlights a gap in preparation. According to him, the mishandling of injuries placed the WK campaign at risk.

Garcia’s comments suggest that future Belgian squads may need to overhaul their medical protocols to avoid similar setbacks. The former coach’s interview with Le Soir brings the issue into public debate ahead of upcoming international fixtures.