The Belgian Red Devils are at the crossroads of player selection as their new coach, Rudi Garcia, prepares to announce his first squad on March 14. One of the pivotal figures in the selection debate is Amadou Onana, who hopes to make the cut after recovering from a recent hamstring injury.
Onana, who has been sidelined for several weeks, expressed optimism about his inclusion, stating, "I have always had a very good relationship with Domenico," referring to previous coach Domenico Tedesco. He noted the trust Tedesco placed in the team, emphasizing the drive forward the coach inspired. Yet, with football often demanding change following lackluster results, Onana acknowledged the necessity of new leadership with Garcia. "We know when you don’t get the results, changes need to be made. The federation decided to make changes, and I think we all want to do well," he added.
Garcia has already reached out to Onana, checking on his recovery status. Onana admitted, "I didn’t know him too well before, but of course, everyone knows his achievements." These include winning Ligue 1 with Lille and reaching significant milestones like the Europa League final.
An equally significant discussion surrounding the Red Devils is the return of star goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois. With Garcia visiting Madrid to personally meet Courtois, the goalkeeper confirmed he is available for the upcoming playoff matches against Ukraine. "I think it’s great news since every good player is welcome in our locker room," Onana remarked, highlighting Courtois as one of the best goalkeepers globally.
Alongside Courtois's return, there is concern over Kevin De Bruyne, who has faced challenges at Manchester City. Onana commented, "For me, Kevin De Bruyne, my vision of him never changes. I think he’s the best Belgian player for the past six or seven years. He has extraordinary qualities. This little phase shouldn’t make us forget what he is capable of. He remains super important for us, both as a player and as a leader." Onana expressed his excitement about playing alongside players of such caliber, describing it as fulfilling a childhood dream.
With the Belgian team set to face Ukraine, Onana emphasized the importance of playing with fervor and incorporating the team’s top talents. His confidence reflects the eagerness of the squad as they prepare under newly appointed leadership. The upcoming selection not only delineates on-field roles but also aims to rejuvenate the team spirit among the Red Devils.
Garcia’s coaching tenure begins amid high expectations, as he navigates the challenges of player performance variability and injury recoveries. The decisions made over the coming weeks will be pivotal for Belgium's ambitions on the international stage.