Vincent Mannaert reflects on Rudi Garcia's exit from Belgium

Sport director Vincent Mannaert has spoken publicly for the first time about the departure of Rudi Garcia as head coach of the Belgian national team after an 18‑month spell that saw the Red Devils reach the World Cup quarter‑finals before losing to eventual champions Spain.

De sportief directeur van de Belgische voetbalbond noted that Garcia was appointed at the start of 2025 in a difficult period, when Belgium needed rest, results and a fresh line towards the WK. According to Mannaert, the Fransman played an important role in that rebuilding process.

"Rudi Garcia has without doubt played a key role in the recovery of the Red Devils. He was appointed as bondscoach in a challenging sporting and financial context," the official KBVB channels quoted. Mannaert highlighted how Garcia managed to re‑form a group whose atmosphere had not always been easy.

He added that "thanks to his commitment and experience, cohesion within the squad was restored and a strong result was achieved at the most recent World Cup". The federation’s assessment links the quarter‑final run directly to Garcia’s influence.

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Belgium reached the quarter‑finals but were eliminated by Spain, who later lifted the world title. Following that outcome, the board decided not to extend Garcia’s expiring contract.

Mannaert closed the chapter without harsh words, stating, "On behalf of the federation I want to thank Rudi and his assistants sincerely for the past eighteen months." The tone remained respectful despite the contract decision.

He also confirmed that the KBVB is already preparing a new cycle, with the appointment of a new head coach already under discussion. The name of Mark Van Bommel, former Antwerp coach, is circulating as the favourite to succeed Garcia.

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