Philippe Clement Dismisses Belgium National Team Speculation

Under-pressure Rangers manager Philippe Clement could be presented with an opportunity to manage the Belgian national team, as the Belgian Football Association (FA) reportedly considers making changes. The current head coach of the national team, Domenico Tedesco, faces possible dismissal following disappointing performances in recent tournaments, including a shock defeat to Israel in the Nations League.

Reports indicate that officials at the Royal Belgian Football Association are contemplating a shift away from foreign managers, considering homegrown options for the first time in recent years. Clement, who has faced criticism from Rangers fans due to poor performances in the league, is seen as a probable candidate for the role.

Vincent Mannaert, the newly appointed sporting director of the Belgian FA and Clement’s former colleague at Club Brugge, might advocate for Clement, whom he previously worked with to achieve significant domestic success. However, an official decision regarding Tedesco’s tenure is pending, with Mannaert taking up his post fully in December.

In response to the speculation, Clement has publicly reiterated his commitment to Rangers, reaffirming the long-term contract he signed earlier this season. «I engaged myself for the long term to Rangers,» Clement stated, emphasizing his focus on the club’s progress in the Scottish Premiership.

Meanwhile, the Rangers squad faces challenges of its own, with defender Neraysho Kasanwirjo sidelined due to a knee injury sustained during international duty with the Netherlands under-21 team. The 22-year-old, who joined Rangers on a loan from Feyenoord, will be undergoing an assessment to determine the need for surgery.

Clement described the injury as a significant setback, highlighting Kasanwirjo’s versatility and importance to the team. «It’s a blow for us and for the player,» he said, noting the need to seek reinforcements during the January transfer window to cover the defensive void left by Kasanwirjo’s absence.

As the situation unfolds, Clement remains focused on guiding Rangers up the league table, undeterred by the speculation surrounding his potential move to the Belgian national team.