Why Garcia kept injured Debast with Belgium at the World Cup

The Belgian team’s base camp in Doha buzzed with tension as Rudi Garcia surveyed the training pitch. Zeno Debast, clad in a tracksuit rather than a national-team shirt, moved among his teammates, his presence as much a statement as any tactical drill.

Rudi Garcia brought Debast to the World Cup despite the Anderlecht defender’s injury, and the coach has no regrets. Debast played zero minutes in Qatar but his role off the pitch has been decisive for Belgium’s cohesion.

Garcia sees Debast as a leader of Belgium’s next generation. At 20, he has already earned the respect of his peers and is viewed as a future cornerstone of the national side. His standing in the dressing room is underlined by constant involvement even while recovering.

Debast’s value extends beyond matchday. He attends tactical meetings, supports teammates during sessions and remains fully integrated despite individual rehab work. The technical staff’s decision to include him reflects a broader ambition: to preserve continuity ahead of Euro 2028.

Once fully fit, Debast is expected to anchor Belgium’s defence. Garcia’s squad planning now centres on keeping injured players close rather than sidelining them, ensuring no one feels isolated during tournaments.

The coach has made squad cohesion a priority since taking charge. Keeping Debast with the group—even when he could not play—fits that philosophy. In Garcia’s view, his off-field presence is at least as valuable as his on-field contributions.

Debast himself has echoed the sentiment. “If it were up to me, I’d play tomorrow,” he said, signalling his eagerness to return to action once cleared.

For Belgium, the gamble on Debast is less about minutes in Qatar and more about building the identity of a side that must evolve beyond its current generation.