Van Bommel names first Belgium squad with eight changes from World Cup

Belgium's national team coach Mark van Bommel unveiled a squad of 28 players for their upcoming Nations League matches on Friday. Notably, eight players who did not participate in the recent World Cup were included in the roster. However, first-choice goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, who requested a break from the Nations League due to playing time concerns, remains absent.

Jeremy Doku, a key figure in the World Cup squad but who had an underwhelming performance, will also miss out due to injury. Veteran defender Thomas Meunier has been dropped from the team, while Axel Witsel has retired from international football. The squad is bolstered by uncapped players, including goalkeepers Jari De Busser, Mike Penders, and Maarten Vandevoordt, as well as 21-year-old fullback Kyriani Sabbe.

The lineup features established stars such as Kevin De Bruyne, Thomas Meunier, and Romelu Lukaku, alongside promising talents like Matias Fernandez-Pardo and Youri Tielemans. The team will face Italy, France, Turkey, and a rematch against France in matches scheduled between September 25 and October 5.