BRUSSELS — The Belgian soccer federation announced on Friday that Rudi Garcia has been appointed as the national team’s new head coach.

The 60-year-old coach comes with significant experience, having held positions at prominent clubs such as Napoli, Marseille, and Roma throughout his career.

Notably, this will be his first role managing a national team, and he has signed a contract that will last until the conclusion of the 2026 World Cup.

Garcia steps in for Domenico Tedesco, who was dismissed last week after failing to rejuvenate the team during his brief time in charge.

The change in coaching could also facilitate the return of Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, who had a strained relationship with Tedesco and chose to leave the squad prior to the 2024 European Championships after not receiving the team captaincy.

Tedesco was brought on board in February 2023 with the intention of revitalizing the Red Devils following a disappointing conclusion to Roberto Martínez’s tenure at the World Cup.

However, Tedesco’s efforts fell short, leading to his dismissal after disappointing performances, notably at Euro 2024, where Belgium was eliminated by France in the round of 16, and in the Nations League.

Garcia’s debut match as the national coach will be in March against Ukraine during the Nations League playoffs, where his primary objective will be to ensure Belgium remains in League A.

The Red Devils are also set to begin their World Cup qualifying campaign in June.

Garcia previously won a league and cup double in France with Lille in 2011, where he managed the notable former Belgian player Eden Hazard.

“After engaging in some deep discussions, I am thrilled to take on the role of leading the Red Devils toward the World Cup,” Garcia expressed.

“I look forward to working with this talented group and hope to achieve results that will unite the entire nation behind our Red Devils once more.”