Rudi Garcia's time with the Red Devils is coming to an end after he guided Belgium to the quarter-finals of the FIFA World Cup 2026™, where they were defeated by eventual champions Spain.
In a statement released today, the Royal Belgian Football Association (RBFA) announced the end of its partnership with the French head coach, whose contract expires on 31 July.
"After discussions with the Belgian Federation, we decided not to extend the excellent run of the past 18 months," Garcia said in the statement. "I leave Belgium in League A of the Nations League and among the world's top eight teams. I would like to thank my fantastic group of players, sporting director Vincent Mannaert, and the fans who supported us throughout the World Cup. I wish Belgium all the best as they continue the generational transition I enjoyed initiating."
Garcia, who has notably managed clubs such as Lille, Marseille, Lyon, and AS Roma, took charge of the Belgian national team in early 2025. His record includes keeping the Red Devils in League A of the UEFA Nations League and a deep run at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Belgium lost 2-1 to Spain in a hard-fought quarter-final clash, where they became the only team to score a goal against La Roja during the tournament, courtesy of Charles De Ketelaere.
The 62-year-old Frenchman leaves the Belgian national team with a record of 12 wins, six draws, and only two defeats.
A successor has not yet been announced. Belgium's upcoming fixtures are an away match against Italy on 25 September and a home game against France three days later, as part of the UEFA Nations League.
Sources: FIFA Official
