Philippe Albert debriefed the Red Devils’ defeat against Israel, which sealed third place in the Nations League group. Our consultant did not appreciate the departure of five players between the match against Italy and that against Israel. “Of the Drunk, De Cuyper, Theate, Lavia or LukakuI will be very attentive to see who will start this weekend. I hope these are not diplomatic wounds. In my opinion, the clubs have taken too much importance by putting pressure on certain players so that they skip international meetings. I assume that if you don’t want to play for the Devils, it’s better to stay at home.”
“The national team must be the absolute holy grail for any football player, it is out of the question to be absent due to minor injuries. The example must come from above, from the management of the national team. But responsibility also lies with Domenico Tedesco. He let that happen too.“It is true that in October, Tedesco surprised by leaving Meunier, Of Bruyne and Lukaku at rest, admitting to the press that “If it had been a selection for the World Cup Qualifiers, I would have selected other players.“A Pandora’s box undoubtedly opened that day, spreading the idea that this League of Nations is not of such great importance in his eyes.
Nevertheless, Albert remains positive about the future. “The Red Devils will go to the World Cup, I am convinced. With the return of De Bruyne, TissueLukaku, Of Ketelaere or Tielemansthe Devils will regain a certain level of performance.”
Belgium
