Van Bommel gets tough Nations League assignment for Belgium

Mark van Bommel knows that in his baptism by fire as Belgium’s head coach he will immediately face a tough Nations‑League‑assignment, in which the Red Devils meet Italy, Turkey and France twice. He does not see the tough draw as a disadvantage, but wants to sharpen his playing style in the team as quickly as possible.

Focus on own team

Van Bommel makes clear that his first priority is not the opponents, but the own team. “We must concentrate on our own team, get our idea into it as quickly as possible and make sure they know what they have to do,” says the coach.

He acknowledges the tough draw, but does not see it as a disadvantage. “We knew that beforehand, that they are tough matches. That is logical,” he explains.

The Dutch coach also emphasizes the need to prepare well for opponents of high caliber. “You also have to prepare as best as possible, because you are playing against a high‑class opponent,” he says.

For each match Van Bommel expects different emphases and gives nuanced instructions. “Depending on that you will also give nuances and tasks. We want to know as quickly as possible how the opponent plays,” he says, although it is the first time.

He does not want to use the tough draw as an excuse. “We would like to win those and that is what we are aiming for,” Van Bommel emphasizes, while warning against overly high expectations.

According to him, Belgium is starting a new cycle with many changes, but one certainty remains: Youri Tielemans remains captain of the Red Devils.