Van Bommel appointed new Belgium head coach to replace Rudi Garcia

Belgium have appointed Mark van Bommel as their new head coach, with the former Netherlands midfielder signing a contract through to 2028, as reported by [Calciomercato.com](https://www.calciomercato.com/liste/belgio-van-bommel-il-preferito-come-prossimo-ct-dei-diavoli-rossi-due-alternative/blt2e985f12de58b54a).

The 48-year-old takes over from Rudi Garcia, whose contract was allowed to expire on July 31 following a disappointing run of results for the Red Devils. Van Bommel won the race for the job ahead of other candidates including Sebastien Pocognoli and Thomas Frank.

Van Bommel, who led Royal Antwerp to a domestic double in 2023, was identified by sporting director Vincent Mannaert as the ideal candidate to start a new cycle for the Belgian national team. According to Belgian outlet Nieuwsblad, the former PSV, Wolfsburg and Antwerp boss has signed a deal running until the 2028 European Championship, with an official announcement expected imminently.

The Belgian football federation had drawn up a profile seeking a younger, more modern coach than Garcia, with clear tactical ideas and strong personality. Van Bommel brings charisma, man-management skills, and tactical acumen honed during his playing career at Bayern Munich, Barcelona and AC Milan, as well as his coaching stints across the Netherlands, Germany and Belgium.

The appointment marks Van Bommel's return to the international stage after a decorated playing career that included Champions League glory with Bayern Munich in 2013 and 70 caps for the Netherlands national team.

Sources

• Calciomercato.com