Domenico Tedesco gave his first press conference as the new Belgium coach, giving his thoughts on the application process, the team available to him and their goals for the coming years.
The 37-year-old Italian, who moved to Germany at the age of two, is a rising star in the world of coaching, showing his promise during his experiences at FC Schalke and RB Leipzig.
A dual national, Tedesco has worked in Germany and Russia and is now ready to take on a new challenge with the Belgium national team, signing an 18-month contract.
Speaking in a press conference, Tedesco first discussed how he got the Belgium job.
“I was waiting during a dentist appointment and saw the news that Roberto Martinez was leaving his post.
“I contacted my agents to find out how to get this job. I was told it would be complicated given my lack of experience at international level, but in the end the process took its course.”
He spoke about the players available to him and his goals for the next 18 months.
“The goal is to qualify for Euro 2024. It will not be easy, but we have a talented team to achieve it. In recent weeks I have been watching the Jupiler Pro League. I have to say that I see a lot of young talent.
“It takes courage on the part of the clubs to play these youngsters as starters, they are very interesting. Quality is the most important thing. It doesn’t matter if we are younger or not, the most important thing is to win games.”
The 37-year-old was asked which language he would use with players and the press.
“I could speak in German, with a translator, but I prefer English, it’s more respectful for those around me.
“French? I haven’t spoken it much in the last three years.”
Tedesco commented on Eden Hazard’s future with the national team.
“When a player makes the decision to retire, it’s because he has his reasons. I won’t call him back. What is certain is that I want to get in touch with the players and staff in the coming weeks.”
He was asked what kind of playing style he’d use with the Red Devils.
“I intend to adapt to my players. The important thing is the approach when we have the ball and when we have to win it back.
“Then we will see whether we play with three or four defenders. It will be defined later but it is less important.”
Finally, Tedesco responded to the comments of Jan Vertonghen, who stated that he didn’t know the 37-year-old coach.
“It’s normal, I have been used to it since I became a coach so I have no problem with what he said.
“That some players wanted to continue with Thierry Henry is human, they knew him and got on well with him so what could be more normal? But this is not a problem for me.”