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Evening Standard
Evening Standard
Sport
Marc Mayo

Thierry Henry’s future unclear as Belgium name new manager after Roberto Martinez’s departure

Belgium have appointed Domenico Tedesco as their new national team manager - leaving Thierry Henry’s future up in the air.

The Arsenal legend worked as assistant to Roberto Martinez over two stints, the most recent including the World Cup in Qatar.

On Wednesday, the Belgian FA (RBFA) announced Tedesco as their new boss on a contract to the end of Euro 2024, ending weeks of speculation over the role.

Henry had gone on the record to categorically deny putting his name forward for the job despite calls from Romelu Lukaku and Toby Alderweireld for him to be offered it.

The RBFA statement made no mention of 37-year-old Tedesco’s backroom staff after a taskforce was put in place to oversee his appointment.

“For me it is a great honour to be the new head coach of Belgium,” the Italian, who most recently took charge of RB Leipzig, said. “I'm really looking forward to the task and I'm extremely motivated. I had a very good feeling right from the first conversation.”

Since the World Cup, 45-year-old Henry has continued his punditry duties for the likes of Amazon Prime and Ligue 1.

There has also been no news on a potential move to join Martinez’s backroom team at his new role as Portugal manager.

A decision will likely be made quickly with Belgium taking on Sweden in Euro 2024 qualifying next month as Portugal start their campaign at home to Liechtenstein.

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