Thibaut Courtois had firmly stated he wouldn’t return to the Belgian national team as long as Domenico Tedesco was the coach.
For weeks, there had been growing indications of Tedesco’s departure, and now the inevitable has happened. The 39-year-old has been officially relieved of his duties as Belgium’s head coach.
Following a meeting with Tedesco on Friday, the Belgian Football Federation announced their decision in a statement. The coach had been under contract until the 2026 World Cup.
With Tedesco’s exit, the biggest obstacle to Courtois’ return to the national team is now gone. The Real Madrid goalkeeper had publicly declared back in August, “After many incidents with the coach and much consideration, I have decided not to return to the Belgian national team under his management.”
Tedesco’s tenure began on a high note after he took charge following the 2022 World Cup. Under his guidance, Belgium remained unbeaten in their first 13 matches. However, the team’s fortunes changed drastically. They were eliminated in the Round of 16 at the Euros last year, and in the Nations League, they managed just one win in six group-stage matches, finishing third.
The final blow came last November when Belgium suffered a loss to Israel, leaving Tedesco’s position increasingly unstable. In their last 10 matches, Belgium managed just one victory, a record that ultimately cost the Italian coach his job.
Naturally, Tedesco expressed his sadness over the decision.
“I have always been incredibly proud to coach the Red Devils. Together, we achieved so much, but unfortunately, this beautiful journey has come to an end,” he said.
Reports have been circulating for days that Thierry Henry is the leading candidate to take over as Belgium’s head coach. The French legend previously served as Belgium’s assistant coach under Roberto Martínez.
