Football Association of Wales chief executive Noel Mooney has insisted Craig Bellamy is “absolutely committed” to his role as Wales head coach, following the collapse of a proposed move to Championship club Burnley. The former striker had been in advanced talks to take charge at Turf Moor, but the switch fell through on Thursday, leaving Bellamy to continue leading the national team.
Bellamy Stays as Wales Prepare for Nations League A
With the speculation now behind them, the FAW is focusing on Wales’ upcoming Nations League campaign. Bellamy guided Wales to promotion from League B to League A, and the team is set to face Portugal, Denmark, and Norway in the top tier this autumn. Mooney expressed full confidence in Bellamy, highlighting the progress made under his tenure.
“Craig’s been brilliant with us. He got us promoted from Nations League B to A, and we look forward to going to Nations League A this autumn, against Portugal, Denmark and Norway,” Mooney told the BBC's Politics Wales programme. “We were unfortunate not to get the World Cup on penalty kicks — when you get to penalty kicks it’s a lottery. We’d loved to have been there, but now our focus is very much on Nations League A and Craig at the helm.”
Fan Concerns Over Tactics and Burnley Talks
Wales’ World Cup qualification exit on penalties has intensified scrutiny on Bellamy, with some fans criticising his tactics and selections. The Burnley speculation further fueled detractors, but Mooney dismissed any suggestion that Bellamy’s commitment had wavered. When asked if Bellamy would remain in charge for September’s matches, Mooney was unequivocal.
“Yeah, we just look forward to these games. He’s done a terrific job here so far. He has got us playing really, really good football. We’re just looking forward to the autumn now,” Mooney said.
FAW Chief Rejects Damage to Bellamy’s Standing
Mooney rejected claims that the Burnley talks had damaged Bellamy’s relationship with supporters or cast doubt on his dedication. He reiterated that the head coach remains fully focused on Wales. “Craig is absolutely committed to his country. He is committed to the job. Every discussion we have, he’s always talking about the future and how we’re going to go forward. We understand the conversations will happen around the place, but he’s here, and we’re all looking forward to the autumn,” Mooney added.
