Bellamy Appointed Wales Manager

Craig Bellamy has been appointed as the new Head Coach of Wales Men’s National Team. 

Bellamy’s appointment comes just one month after Rob Page was sacked following a dip in form, and missing out on UEFA Euro 2024 qualification via a play-off final loss to Poland on penalties in March 2024.

Bellamy previously represented Wales 78 times in his playing career and was captain between 2007-2010, and most recently served as acting Head Coach of Burnley following Vincent Kompany’s move to Bayern Munich.

Newly-appointed Burnley manager, Scott Parker tried to persuade Bellamy to stay at Turf Moor but he decided to move on and take up the Wales job, which was one of his ambitions as a coach.

“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. 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.”

Bellamy also paid tribute to Burnley for allowing him to be part of “the right club” and learn his trade and felt that his decision to leave was “a truly difficult decision.”

He proceeded to continue: “But the chance to be the manager, of Wales, my country, has always been a dream that has never left me and a chance I just couldn’t turn down.

“I wish Scotty all the very best, he’s a good person and a close friend and the club is in great hands.

“To all the Burnley fans that made me feel so welcome – thank you and I’ll see you again soon! Belluz.”

Burnley Chairman, Alan Pace added: “I want to thank Craig for all his hard work during his time at Burnley and wish him the best for his new position as Wales Manager.

“Craig has been a very important part of our wonderful journey the last two years. I’ve admired his leadership, knowledge and passion.

“I am certain that he will continue to find success in his new role, and I wish him the very best of luck.”

FAW Chief Football Officer, Dr. David Adams is “absolutely delighted” to sign Bellamy following “a thorough recruitment process for the new Men’s National Team Head Coach…” which determined that the 44 year-old was “the standout candidate.”

Bellamy’s first match in charge will take place on Friday 6 September against Euro 2024 Quarter-Finalists, Turkey, at Cardiff City Stadium in the 2024-25 UEFA Nations League.