Craig Bellamy’s Growing Reputation as Wales Head Coach

Craig Bellamy, who previously served as assistant coach to Vincent Kompany at Burnley, has taken on the role of head coach for the Wales national team. His performance has piqued the interest of various clubs; however, Noel Mooney, the chief executive of the Football Association of Wales, hopes that Bellamy, whom he describes as a “genius,” will continue in his position until Euro 2028.

After being linked to the Celtic managerial position following Brendan Rodgers’ departure in October, Bellamy reaffirmed his commitment to the Wales team. Appointed in July 2024, the 46-year-old signed a four-year contract and has made a significant impact in his inaugural senior managerial role.

Under Bellamy’s leadership, Wales has secured promotion to the Nations League top flight. The team stands a chance to qualify for the World Cup in 2026 if they successfully navigate their playoff matches in March, aiming for the tournament set to take place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Bellamy has also introduced an ambitious style of play that has garnered attention from club teams, although Mooney notes that there has not yet been a formal approach. “There’s interest surrounding Craig. Wherever I go, I hear it due to his attractive style of football,” Mooney remarked to BBC Sport Wales. He added, “If I were the CEO of a club looking for beautiful, expansive football, I would certainly consider him, as he is an exceptional coach with a remarkable support team.”

The former Liverpool and Manchester City forward has earned 78 caps for Wales, scoring 19 goals, yet he has not experienced a major tournament during his playing career. This drives his ambition to guide Wales to the 2026 World Cup, and he sees managing the national team at Euro 2028 on home soil as a significant motivator.

Wales is set to co-host Euro 2028 alongside England, Scotland, and the Republic of Ireland, with Cardiff’s Principality Stadium hosting the opening match. Mooney reflected on this potential milestone, stating, “While attending a rugby match between Wales and the All Blacks, we looked around the stadium together, envisioning the atmosphere when Euro 2028 kicks off here. That would mark a new chapter for Welsh football.”

Mooney expressed a strong desire for Bellamy to remain in his role until Euro 2028, emphasizing Bellamy’s enthusiasm for this opportunity. He acknowledged the realities of football management, stating, “If an offer from a club like Real Madrid, Barcelona, or Liverpool materializes, it would naturally be appealing to anyone. Bellamy is competitive and has reached the pinnacle of the game, so it is understandable that he aspires to do the same off the pitch.”

He concluded by highlighting Bellamy’s innovative coaching style, remarking, “If his teams continue to play with the flair we witnessed against North Macedonia, where Wales triumphed 7-1, then any club seeking a talented young coach will certainly have him on their radar. I have reiterated many times that I believe Craig is a genius in his craft.”