Craig Bellamy: Wales confirm ex-Liverpool, Newcastle star as new manager - 'Proudest moment of my career'
Updated 09/07/2024 at 12:22 GMT+1
Craig Bellamy was one of Wales' brightest sparks as a player, and now the former Newcastle United, Liverpool and Manchester City star will try his luck as manager. Having acted as an assistant to Vincent Kompany at Burnley and Anderlecht, the 44-year-old will now look to take Wales to the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Canada and Mexico.
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Craig Bellamy has been named the new Wales manager, it was announced on Tuesday morning.
The former Newcastle United, Liverpool and Manchester City winger has succeeded Rob Page, who was sacked in June after failing to qualify for Euro 2024.
Bellamy scored 19 goals in 78 appearances for Wales and won the PFA Young Player of the Year Award during his time as a player in the Premier League.
Since retiring, he has acted as an assistant to Bayern Munich manager Vincent Kompany at Burnley and Anderlecht having overseen the youth system at Cardiff City,
In a statement on their website, the Welsh FA wrote: "The Football Association of Wales are delighted to announce the appointment of Craig Bellamy as the Cymru Men’s National Team Head Coach until 2028."
The 44-year-old was named interim manager of Burnley following the departure of Kompany until Scott Parker's appointment on the 5th July.
Bellamy was vice-captain of Wales behind Ryan Giggs until June 2007, when he took over the role on a permanent basis following the United legend's retirement from international football.
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“It’s an incredible honour for me to be given the opportunity to lead my country and it’s the proudest moment of my career," said Bellamy. "It was always my ultimate dream to become the Cymru Head Coach and I am ready for the challenge.
“I will give my full commitment to develop this team and I am passionate to bring continued success into Welsh football. I can’t wait to get started with our Nations League games in September.”
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