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Belgium coach Rudi Garcia comments on Italy's World Cup absence

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 4, 2026, 12:25 PM

Last updated Jun 4, 2026

Belgium coach Rudi Garcia comments on Italy's World Cup absence

Summary

Belgium's Rudi Garcia expressed disappointment regarding Italy's absence from the upcoming World Cup, stating it is ‘not the same’ without them. Garcia, preparing for his first World Cup as a coach, emphasized the need for Italy to develop young talent, similar to France's approach. Italy's federation will appoint a new coach following the FIGC Presidential election on June 22, with caretaker Silvio Baldini currently at the helm. The new manager is expected to debut in the Nations League against Belgium next September.

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By the Numbers

•Rudi Garcia leads Belgium into the World Cup this summer.
•Italy missed World Cup qualification for the third consecutive time.
•Garcia suggests Italy should focus on youth development.
•Italy to appoint a new coach after the June 22 election.
•New coach expected to debut against Belgium in September.

Latest Updates

12:25 PMYahoo Sports — World Cup ‘not the same’ without Italy, Azzurri must imitate France

What they're saying

"
Belgium coach Rudi Garcia admits that playing in the World Cup without Italy is ‘not the same’ and urges the federation to imitate France: ‘Work on the foundations and develop young talent.’Ru...
— Yahoo Sports

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