Anthony Barry insists he had no intention of quitting Ireland until Belgium came calling.
But today he said the chance to work with the world’s No 1 ranked team ahead of the World Cup in November was too big to turn down.
Chelsea coach Barry was highly regarded within the Ireland squad having been appointed as Damien Duff’s successor a year ago.
But he rocked the camp in early February after an approach from Belgium boss Roberto Martinez.
And it just so happens that his first game in the new role is against Ireland at Aviva Stadium on Saturday.
Barry will join a Belgian coaching staff that also includes Thierry Henry, who could face a hot reception on Saturday after his infamous 2009 handball against Ireland.
Ireland manager Stephen Kenny this week appointed QPR assistant John Eustace as Barry’s replacement on his staff.
But speaking to the Belgian media today, Barry said: “I had no intention of leaving Ireland at all. I had only been working there for a year and was very happy.
“But a young coach like myself is ambitious. I am also working as an assistant at Chelsea. And when a big name like Roberto Martinez calls, it's hard to say no.
“I didn't know Roberto personally beforehand. I worked just like him at Wigan and I met him there in 2017 or 2018."
"But I want to prove myself at this level and it was a no brainer to make the move. The chance to go to a World Cup is a highlight in any career.
“But even without the World Cup, I’d have liked the opportunity to work with a coach like Roberto Martinez and top players like Belgium have.”
