Belgium may have moved on from the so-called ‘Golden Generation’ but they are looking like contenders once again. Domenico Tedesco’s Euro 2024 squad is packed with talent and the Red Devils can realistically eye winning the competition. But to do so, Tedesco must get his selection right and utilise all the tools at his disposal in the right way.
The new boss has implemented a much more direct style compared to predecessor Roberto Martinez’s possession-based approach, often using a back four and relying on wingers to wreak havoc in the final third.
With that in mind, what is Belgium’s strongest XI for this tournament? Well, we’ve tried to provide an answer to that very question.
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Formation 4-3-3
Goalkeeper – Matz Sels (Nottingham Forest)
A hard-fought season in the Premier League with Forest has given Sels the shot-stopping experience needed to weather the Euro 2024 storm. Despite the shortcomings of the surrounding defensive unit, Sels was very reliable for the Tricky Trees, proving himself to be a trustworthy No1 and worthy of our first spot in Belgium’s best XI.
Right-Back – Timothy Castagne (Fulham)
Another Premier League selection, Fulham’s Castagne has shown his quality – both in West London and internationally – as a ball-playing full-back who is not only tenacious, but has real quality in possession. Positionally, Castagne has impeccable awareness and he possesses world-class delivery from set-pieces, a huge bonus for tournament football.
Centre-Back – Zeno Debast (Anderlecht)
Young prospect Debast enjoyed a breakout season for Anderlecht, becoming one of their main points of defensive solidity. Alongside team-mate Jan Vertonghen, the 20-year-old will be in a familiar setting on Belgium duty, which will further allow him to show his capabilities on a larger stage. Fast and strong with an excellent read on the game, Debast has everything he needs to enjoy a stellar career.
Centre-Back – Jan Vertonghen (Anderlecht)
The veteran defender is still a key component of Belgium’s backline at the age of 37. Vertonghen provides Tedesco with a cool head under pressure and – perhaps more importantly – a wealth of experience that few others in the whole tournament can match. The ex-Tottenham star’s passion is also second to none and he will do whatever it takes to win games.
Left-Back – Arthur Theate (Rennes)
A hugely promising talent who enjoyed a great season in Ligue 1, Theate is definitely one to watch at Euro 2024 and a massively interesting addition to the Belgian team – one who should really suit their style of play. Renowned for his progressive passes and ball-carrying ability, Theate’s unique skill-set adds a new dimension to the Red Devils’ back four.
Defensive Midfield – Amadou Onana (Everton)
Surrounded by attack-minded stars and an overall team ethos that encourages offensive play, Onana is an essential cog in Tedesco’s side, with his commanding performances in the Premier League attracting the attention of the division’s top clubs. The tall midfield enforcer is happy to do the dirty work for Belgium but can also contribute further forward with his powerful dribbling and threat from set-pieces. An all-round package who simply has to start this summer.
Centre Midfield – Youri Tielemans (Aston Villa)
Tielemans has been criticised in the past for a lack of effort and defensive prowess, but so what? The Villa man is here for creative purposes and with Tedesco’s aggressive style, he is the perfect middle man between a progressive defence and dynamic attack. Tielemans is also a player who chips in with crucial goals on big occasions. Just ask Leicester fans about the 2021 FA Cup final…
If Belgium want to go a tad more defensive, Lyon’s Orel Mangala could slot into Tielemans’ place, allowing Onana to operate further forward.
Centre Midfield – Kevin De Bruyne (Manchester City)
What more is there to be said about De Bruyne? Arguably Belgium’s greatest ever player, the success of Tedesco’s side at Euro 2024 could hinge on whether De Bruyne is on his game. But the City maestro’s presence alone elevates the status and fear factor of this team to a level that would simply be unreachable without him.
Right Wing – Leandro Trossard (Arsenal)
Trossard’s fine end to the season with Arsenal means he simply has to start at Euro 2024. The 29-year-old winger bagged 12 Premier League goals and established himself as a starter with his superb all-round game. Trossard fits the profile of this aggressive, exciting attacking unit perfectly and perhaps most importantly, he possesses the finishing skills of a seasoned striker.
Striker – Romelu lukaku (Roma, on loan from Chelsea)
After being deemed surplus to requirements at Chelsea, Lukaku went on loan to Roma to regain some form and confidence. He bagged 21 goals and notched four assists, with clubs around Europe eyeing his signature once again. Well, that’s if Chelsea don’t decide to hang on to him. One of the most physical and powerful strikers around, it is no surprise that in-form Lukaku is comfortably Belgium’s record scorer. Much like De Bruyne, if he has a good tournament, so will this team.
Left Wing – Jeremy Doku (Manchester City)
Doku is Belgium’s wildcard in attack following an impressive debut season at City in which he registered three goals and eight assists in the Premier League. A full-back’s nightmare with his speed and dribbling ability, Doku’s inclusion in the Belgium side this summer looks a no-brainer to us. If he starts from the bench, opposing defenders will breathe a sigh of relief – until he comes on…
Belgium Euro 2024 Betting Tips
*Odds are correct at time of publication and subject to change
Kevin De Bruyne to get the most assists in the tournament – 13.00
Belgium to win Group E – 1.45
Belgium to reach the semi-finals – 5.00
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