Sporting Monitors Debast's Clinical Situation as World Cup Debut Looms

A fleeting World Cup appearance, yet without a single minute played. Debast, sidelined since early May, showed positive signs during his recent training sessions with the Belgian national team at the World Cup. However, he remained on the bench for the hard-fought match against Senegal (a 3-2 victory after extra time), continuing his World Cup journey without any minutes under his belt. Despite his lack of game time, the center-back retains the confidence of coach Rudi Garcia, who, it's worth noting, didn't hesitate to bring the Sporting defender to the tournament despite his physical limitations.

With Belgium progressing in the competition, the defender won't be able to return to Sporting duties earlier than anticipated. This contrasts with players like Rodrigo Zalazar, who also wasn't utilized by Marcelo Bielsa for Uruguay. This is unwelcome news for Rui Borges, who will thus be without a key defensive piece during the pre-season preparations.

The center-back was an unused substitute against Senegal, but all indications suggest he might finally make his debut in the Round of 16. This scenario was even anticipated by the coach himself. “Debast is with the group, but it's still too early for him to play. He's progressing well, but he needs time to fully regain his physical form, as was already planned,” Garcia stated.

What's certain is that Sporting has been in constant contact with the Belgian medical department to monitor the defender's progress. He will not be returning to Alvalade any sooner following the grueling match against Senegal, with Belgium's victory sealed in the final moments of extra time.