Mark van Bommel set to become new Belgium manager after Rudi Garcia’s exit

Mark van Bommel is on the verge of being appointed as Belgium‘s new head coach, according to Nieuwsblad.

The Dutchman is reportedly in the final stages of negotiations with the Belgian Football Association.

Only minor details remain before the 49-year-old signs a contract that will keep him in charge of the Red Devils through to the end of the 2028 European Championship.

The appointment comes just over a week after Belgium parted ways with Rudi Garcia following their World Cup quarter-final exit to eventual champions Spain.

Garcia’s contract was not renewed despite overseeing an impressive record of 12 wins, six draws and just two defeats from his 20 matches in charge after taking over in January 2025.

Van Bommel had emerged as the leading candidate almost immediately after Garcia’s departure.

Belgian officials are said to have been particularly impressed by his tactical approach and man-management skills.

Technical director Vincent Mannaert reportedly consulted a wide range of contacts before moving forward with the former Netherlands international.

Financial terms have already been agreed, while discussions have also taken place over Van Bommel’s backroom staff.

It is expected that at least one Belgian coach will be included in his coaching team.

The former Barcelona, Bayern Munich and AC Milan midfielder has been out of management since leaving Royal Antwerp in 2024.

During his spell at the club, he guided Antwerp to a historic Belgian Pro League title and domestic cup double in 2023.

Before Antwerp, Van Bommel also managed PSV Eindhoven and Wolfsburg, although he made strong starts before fading.

One potential challenge will be language, as Van Bommel does not speak French.

However, the Dutchman is reportedly keen to improve quickly, and his command of several other languages is viewed as a positive.

He takes charge of a very talented squad that only needs a sensible tactical imprint to clinch their first-ever major title since their Olympic win in 1920.