Belgium’s Blend of Experience and Youth

Former Belgium international Eden Hazard believes the current national team is navigating a positive transition, combining veteran leadership with emerging talent. Hazard recently attended a match during Rudi Garcia’s tenure as coach and observed a nice mix of experienced players and developing youngsters.

“I went to see the first match of the Rudi Garcia period. It’s a period of transition with veterans like Romelu (Lukaku), Kevin (De Bruyne), Thibaut (Courtois), young people who are growing. It’s a nice mix,”

Eden Hazard

Hazard acknowledged the team’s status as underdogs heading into the World Cup, viewing it as a potential advantage. He believes this position allows the team to play with less pressure and maximize their potential.

He specifically highlighted the growth of players like Jérémy Doku and the potential of talents such as De Ketelaere, expressing confidence in their ability to contribute to a successful World Cup campaign.

A Realistic Outlook for the Red Devils

Hazard emphasized the importance of a realistic approach to expectations, suggesting that a successful World Cup for Belgium would be one where the team gives its all without regrets. He indicated that reaching the quarter-finals against a strong opponent would be an acceptable outcome.

“It will be successful if we have no regrets, if we gave everything. And if we are eliminated in the quarter-finals against a very good team, we will just have to accept it.”

Eden Hazard

He also expressed confidence stemming from his familiarity with many of the players and his understanding of the experienced players’ work ethic, noting that several will be appearing in their fourth World Cup.

Positive Signs for Courtois’ Return

New Belgium coach Rudi Garcia is hoping to persuade goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois to return to the national team, following a dispute with the previous coach, Domenico Tedesco. Garcia believes Courtois is the best goalkeeper in the world and has received positive initial signals regarding a potential return.

Lukaku and De Bruyne’s Future with the National Team

Garcia intends to meet with key players Romelu Lukaku and Kevin De Bruyne to discuss their commitment to the national team. Both players previously opted out of Nations League matches.

“I will definitely travel to Madrid, Manchester and Naples to talk to the players who can make us a top country,”

Rudi Garcia