Belgium will be going to Euro 2024 as a side in transition from the golden generation of players who never managed to win anything to the budding new crop of players still finding their way around how international football works. The Belgium Euro 2024 squad has been announced, as Domenico Tedesco’s Red Devils gear up for this summer’s tournament.
After two back-to-back quarter-final exits, they have one target – to better their status at the European championships as much as possible and win it. Edesco is taking over a talented bunch with this Belgian side and though the supposed Golden Generation is over, this is a team stacked with talent.
The Belgium Manager
The Red Devils are one of two sides along with France to opt for just 25 players, despite UEFA permitting 26 in each Euro 2024 squad, with squad harmony suggested as the decisive reason. Domenico Tedesco has taken the reins of the Belgian national team following the tenures of Marc Wilmots and Roberto Martinez, both of whom failed to secure major silverware despite the talent of Belgium’s golden generation.
Appointed in February 2023, Tedesco has yet to taste defeat, typically setting up his team in a 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1 formation. His coaching career began at a young age, with significant spells at FC Erzgebirge Aue, Schalke, Spartak Moscow, and RB Leipzig, where he won the German Cup.
Belgium’s Strengths Ahead of Euro 2024
Tedesco’s team boasts a versatile midfield and a potent attack. Everton’s Amadou Onana and Lyon’s Orel Mangala provide a sturdy midfield base, with Kevin De Bruyne playing as the No. 10. The wings are electrified by Jeremy Doku and Johan Bakayoko, capable of dismantling defenses with their pace and skill. Charles De Ketelaere of Atalanta offers another creative option, while Leandro Trossard provides versatility across the forward line.
Romelu Lukaku remains a formidable striker with 83 goals in 114 caps, backed by RB Leipzig’s Lois Openda, who scored 24 goals in the Bundesliga last season.
UEFA Euro 2024 Tactical Preview: Belgium
After a disappointing 2022 FIFA World Cup, which saw Belgium exit at the group stages, Roberto Martínez resigned from the head coach position after six years in charge. The Spaniard was not able to win any major tournament with Belgium’s so-called “golden generation”, with many feeling Belgium should have been capable of winning at least one tournament. The Belgian FA hired Domenico Tedesco as his replacement, with the former Schalke & RB Leipzig boss not losing a single match yet since being appointed at the beginning of February 2023.
Belgium’s Weaknesses Ahead of Euro 2024
The defense remains a concern with the retirements of Vincent Kompany and Thomas Vermaelen. Jan Vertonghen, at 36, is the sole veteran in the backline, raising questions about his partnership with Leicester’s Wout Faes. The pair’s ability to handle top-tier opposition is uncertain, given their lack of pace for a high defensive line.
The right-back position is solid with Timothy Castagne, but Tedesco has had to be creative on the left, using Rennes’ Arthur Theate in a hybrid role. The lack of depth is evident, highlighted by the recall of Axel Witsel from retirement, despite him now playing as a center-back at Atletico Madrid.
About the Author
John Juma began his journey as a sports writer at a young age, fueled by a deep love for sports and a desire to share their insights with others. It does not matter what sport he is talking about; he tends to be an expert in it. He is known for his professionalism, attention to detail, and commitment to excellence.
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