Belgium: Domenico Tedesco sacked after just under two years as head coach
2025-01-17
Category: sports

Belgium head coach Domenico Tedesco has been sacked after less than two years in charge.The Italian-German had been under pressure following a series of disappointing results, with his side winning just two of their past 10 games.Tedesco's last match in charge saw Belgium slump to a 1-0 Nations League defeat against Israel in November and meant the Red Devils finished third in their group.In a statement, the Belgian FA said the national team "did not perform as we hoped" in the Nations League and at Euro 2024, where they lost to France at the last-16 stage.Tedesco was appointed in February 2023, taking over from Roberto Martinez following the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.The 39-year-old's tenure started brightly with a 13-game unbeaten run, but the Euro 2024 performance was a letdown.Early on in his reign he fell out with Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, with the 32-year-old later saying he would not play for Belgium again while Tedesco remained in charge.Tedesco then failed to show up for the 2026 World Cup qualifying draw in December, prompting speculation he would be leaving his role.On Friday, Tedesco described his tenure as "a beautiful journey" which is "unfortunately coming to an end"."This team is still at the beginning of its development and will cause a sensation in the coming years," added Tedesco."I wish the players, the great employees of the federation and the fans all the best from the bottom of my heart."Belgian media have speculated in recent days about a possible successor, including a return for Thierry Henry, who served as Martinez's assistant for a spell.