Van Bommel exudes confidence for France after Italian debut

Mark van Bommel, head coach of the Belgian national team, said on 27 September 2026 during the press conference for the Nations League duel with France that he is “currently super satisfied” after the 0‑2 victory over Italy, and expressed clear confidence for the upcoming match.

Self‑confidence after Italian success

Van Bommel showed that his widest smile appeared when the conversation was not about his own team. He declared: “I am currently super satisfied. Training is good, the level is high and there is enjoyment.” The coach praised the intensity and the pressure that the Red Devils displayed in Rome.

“That’s how I want to play every match,” said Van Bommel, after which he explained that intensity and willingness come first, followed by the football. He emphasized that the players grasped the core of his ideas after just three training days, something he had previously found difficult to assess.

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Van Bommel comes close to a historic feat with a win in Italy

Selection and training approach

Although Trossard and Penders are not yet match‑fit, the core group that played against Italy remains unchanged. Van Bommel indicated that the lineup will be announced a day in advance, so the first team can train tactically while the reserves simulate the opponent.

French opponent and personal side

France returned on Friday with a 0‑1 victory in Turkey, but Mbappé is missing due to a knee injury. “Actually I find it a pity. You would like to play against the very best footballers,” Van Bommel noted. He also mentioned Zidane, an old acquaintance, as an “exceptional footballer” who now stands on the other side as a coach.

Van Bommel’s son, Ruben, debuted in the same international window and provided a decisive assist. “As a father that is very beautiful to see,” said Van Bommel, after which he added that the Dutch national team is the highest attainable and he himself has also experienced that.

With the French opponent in the sights for tomorrow, Van Bommel continues to stick to his plan: intensity, quick recoveries after losing the ball and a clear game structure. He concluded that being played out once is not a problem as long as the team reacts thereafter with full commitment.