End After World Cup Quarterfinals: Belgian Coach Packs His Bags Post-Tournament

"I am leaving Belgium in UEFA Nations League A and among the top eight teams in the world," Garcia stated, according to a federation announcement. Belgian media are touting former Dutch international Mark van Bommel as the favorite for the vacant position. The former Bayern Munich player has previously managed PSV Eindhoven, VfL Wolfsburg, and Royal Antwerp.

Garcia took over the Belgian squad at the beginning of 2025 from Domenico Tedesco and guided them to the World Cup quarterfinals. The Belgians narrowly lost 1-2 to eventual champions Spain in the quarter-finals. Following discussions with the federation, Garcia declined to extend his eighteen-month collaboration through to Euro 2028 in Great Britain. A significant moment during his tenure was the 4-1 round-of-16 victory over co-hosts USA in Seattle.

"Together with my team, I am currently preparing for a new cycle, including the appointment of a new national team coach," said Vincent Mannaert, the Belgian Football Association's sporting director, as reported by DPA.