The Belgian Football Association has terminated the appointment of the country’s national team coach, Domenico Tedesco, just 10 months after the Italian-German tactician extended his contract to guide the team to the 2026 World Cup.
But Tedesco has since overseen a disappointing Round of 16 exit from Euro 2024, while goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois declared in August that he would be unavailable for the national team while the manager remained in charge.
Belgium’s football association (RBFA) announced the dismissal of Tedesco on Friday following underwhelming performances at Euro 2024 and the Nations League.
The country’s football boss, Peter Willems, who confirmed the development acknowledged Tedesco’s efforts, stating “Domenico made an excellent start as national coach and proved that there are still great things possible, even after the send-off of the previous generation. He has integrated a number of young players into the team,
“Unfortunately, the Red Devils did not meet expectations at Euro 2024, nor in the subsequent Nations League campaign,” he added.
Willems noted that his successor could build on his achievements, adding “We would like to thank him and his team for their pleasant cooperation, hard work, and dedication, and wish them all the best for the future.”
Appointed in February 2023 to succeed Roberto Martinez, Tedesco was tasked with rebuilding the team after the departure of Belgium’s “golden generation.”
Under his leadership, the team qualified for Euro 2024 but exited in the round of 16 after losing to France. They also suffered two additional defeats to France in the Nations League, finishing third in their group and facing a relegation play-off against Ukraine in March.
Expressing his pride in coaching the team, Tedesco said, “This team is still in its early development stages and has great potential for the future. I wish the players, staff, and fans all the best.”
The RBFA has not yet announced a replacement, though Frenchmen Rudi Garcia and Thierry Henry are reportedly frontrunners. Belgium will resume their journey in June, beginning their 2026 World Cup qualifiers with a trip to North Macedonia.
