Bellamy's Commitment to Wales Amid Burnley Interest
Former Wales captain Craig Bellamy, who earned 78 caps and scored 19 goals for the national team, is expected to continue as head coach of the men's national side despite interest from Burnley.
The Football Association of Wales (FAW) officials have expressed strong confidence that Bellamy will remain in his role. Bellamy is among the candidates considered for the managerial vacancy at Burnley following Scott Parker's departure by mutual consent after the club's relegation from the Premier League.
Bellamy is familiar with Burnley, having served as an assistant coach to Vincent Kompany—now Bayern Munich manager—when Kompany was in charge at Turf Moor. The 46-year-old former Manchester City teammate of Kompany has reportedly been informally approached by Burnley, although no official approach has been made to the FAW.
Following extensive discussions with Bellamy, senior FAW sources have conveyed to Wales their conviction that he will remain until his contract concludes in 2028. A significant factor in this confidence is Bellamy's ambition to lead Wales at Euro 2028, which Wales will co-host with England, Scotland, and the Republic of Ireland.
Burnley's Interest and Bellamy's Managerial Journey
Burnley has expressed interest in Bellamy after announcing Parker's exit. Bellamy embarked on his first senior managerial role when he signed a four-year contract with Wales in July 2024. He received commendations for an unbeaten run of nine games, successfully guiding Wales to the top tier of the Nations League and implementing a bold, attacking style of play.
However, Wales' 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign ended unsuccessfully. Two defeats against Belgium prevented automatic qualification, and Wales subsequently lost at home to Bosnia-Herzegovina in the play-off semi-final in March.
While Bellamy enjoys his current role, the former Liverpool and Manchester City forward has openly expressed his desire to manage at the highest level of club football. The FAW is aware of interest from clubs beyond Burnley but retains some protection through a release clause in Bellamy's contract, requiring any interested club to pay at least £700,000 to secure his release.
Other Candidates for Burnley Managerial Role
In addition to Bellamy, former Liverpool teammate Steven Gerrard has been heavily linked with the Burnley managerial position. Cardiff City head coach Brian Barry-Murphy is also considered a potential candidate for the role.
