Craig Bellamy has delivered a hint regarding his future amid ongoing links to the Celtic manager’s job, vowing to ‘watch the sunrise’ following Wales’ agonising World Cup playoff exit.
Wales’ hopes of reaching the 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States of America, Canada and Mexico, were shattered on Thursday night following a devastating penalty shootout defeat to Bosnia and Herzegovina.
However, despite the bitter sting of missing out, Bellamy’s immediate post-match reflections suggest his heart remains firmly set on leading his country to Euro 2028 rather than taking to the Celtic Park dugout.
“Tomorrow the sun will rise, and I’m going to watch that sunrise,” an emotional Bellamy admitted in the aftermath of the shootout loss.
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He has seriously impressed in charge of Wales…
Has Craig Bellamy hinted at Wales stay?
For Celtic fans wondering if Bellamy failing to guide Wales to this summer’s World Cup leads to his exit might want to take a closer look at his comments.
To make it clear, the former striker’s contract with the FAW runs until the next major tournament – the 2028 Euros, which will be played on British soil.
While the Celtic hierarchy continues its search for a new boss, Bellamy’s defiant focus on the upcoming Euro 2028 cycle strongly suggests the Scottish champions will need to cross his name off their shortlist.
“We’ve got a home nations Euros coming up, what an incredible time,” Bellamy told BBC Sport. “We wanted to be in a World Cup this summer, but the future is very bright. There are some good years ahead for Wales.
“We’re going to hurt, but there’s a bright future. It’s hard to think about now, even though I’m trying. I’ll think about that tomorrow morning because that hurt is sinking in now. It will be difficult to sleep off the back of this one, but it makes me even more determined.
“Tomorrow the sun will rise, and I’m going to watch that sunrise.”
Bellamy’s record as Wales boss
In July of 2024, Wales handed the managerial baton to Bellamy following Rob Page’s exit, as it was his first foray into the big time.
Bellamy had previously worked under the guidance of Bayern Munich boss Vincent Kompany, and another Celtic manager target, Roberto Martinez.
But this was the outspoken coach going it alone, and this is what his record at Wales looks like:
- Games: 17
- Wins: 8
- Draws: 4
- Losses: 5
- Goals scored: 33
- Goals conceded: 24
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