Craig Bellamy announced as Wales manager, succeeding Robert Page. © Twitter (@Richard_Norfolk)
Craig Bellamy has been appointed the new Wales national football team manager on a four-year contract until 2028. Bellamy, 44, takes over from his former team-mate Robert Page, who was dismissed in June. Bellamy, who hails from Cardiff, earned 78 caps for Wales and captained the team between 2007 and 2010.
Expressing his excitement, Bellamy said, “It’s an incredible honor for me to be allowed to lead my country, and it’s the proudest moment of my career.” He emphasized his commitment to developing the team and achieving continued success in Welsh football, starting with the Nations League games in September.
Before this role, Bellamy was at Burnley, initially serving as an assistant to Vincent Kompany and later acting as head coach. Although Scott Parker recently took over as Burnley’s head coach, Bellamy left with the club’s blessing and gratitude for his contributions.
Despite interest in the position from notable figures like Thierry Henry, Willy Sagnol, and Des Buckingham, Bellamy was the preferred candidate for the Football Association of Wales (FAW). Dr. David Adams, the FAW’s chief football officer, praised Bellamy as the standout candidate following a comprehensive recruitment process.
Bellamy’s coaching career began with Cardiff City’s academy and included roles as assistant manager at Anderlecht and Burnley. His first match as Wales manager will be a Nations League game against Turkey on September 6, followed by a match against Montenegro on September 9. Bellamy retired from international play in 2013 and missed Wales’ Euro 2016 campaign. He concluded his playing career with Cardiff City and had stints with several major clubs, including Newcastle, Celtic, Manchester City, and Liverpool.
Bellamy also represented Great Britain at the 2012 Olympics and was narrowly defeated by Ryan Giggs for the Wales managerial position in 2018. His appointment represents a major achievement in his career, providing him the platform to lead Wales into the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
