Belgium have named their Belgium World Cup squad despite major questions over fitness and form. The biggest talking point is the inclusion of striker Romelu Lukaku, who is currently struggling with injury and match sharpness ahead of the 2026 tournament.
Lukaku, who plays for Serie A club Napoli, has had a difficult season. The 33-year-old forward has scored 89 goals in 124 international matches for Belgium national football team, making him the country’s all-time top scorer. However, he has only played 69 minutes of club football in 2026 due to a hip injury and lack of match fitness.
Belgium coach Rudi Garcia admitted that Lukaku is not fully ready but remains a key player. He said Lukaku has recovered from injury, but his fitness level is still below full condition. Garcia added that the team has several weeks to help him regain form before the tournament begins.
Despite concerns, Garcia described Lukaku as Belgium’s most important striker. He stressed that even if the forward does not start matches, he could still play a major role during the tournament. The coaching staff plans a gradual fitness program to prepare him for competition.
The squad announcement also included a surprise call-up for Lille forward Matias Fernandez-Pardo. He recently switched national eligibility after previously representing Spain at youth level. His inclusion adds fresh attacking options for Belgium.
However, there was disappointment for Lois Openda, who was left out of the squad. Openda, who has played 33 times for Belgium, struggled in Serie A this season. He scored just one goal in 24 league appearances while on loan at Juventus from RB Leipzig.
Other major names were included without surprise. Midfield star Kevin De Bruyne, goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, and winger Jeremy Doku all made the 26-man squad. These players are expected to form the core of Belgium’s starting lineup.
Belgium will begin their World Cup campaign against Egypt on June 15 in Seattle. They will then face Iran in Los Angeles and New Zealand in Vancouver. All matches are part of Group G.
The team enters the tournament with mixed expectations. At the 2022 World Cup, Belgium were eliminated in the group stage after internal tensions and inconsistent performances. Their so-called “golden generation” failed to reach the level many had predicted.
At Euro 2024, Belgium improved slightly but still fell short. They reached the round of 16 before losing to France. The defeat raised further questions about whether the current squad can compete for major trophies.
Coach Rudi Garcia, who previously managed clubs such as Roma, Marseille, and Napoli, took charge of the national team in January 2025. He replaced Domenico Tedesco after Belgium’s disappointing run. Garcia has since focused on rebuilding the squad and restoring confidence.
Belgium’s current squad reflects a balance between experienced players and new talent. While Lukaku remains the focal point, younger players are being integrated to support long-term development. The coaching staff believes this mix could improve depth and flexibility.
Fitness remains a major concern for Belgium as the tournament approaches. Several key players have had inconsistent club seasons. The medical team is now focused on ensuring the squad peaks at the right time.
Despite doubts, Belgium still enters the World Cup as a competitive European side. Much will depend on whether Lukaku can regain full fitness and whether the team can perform consistently under pressure.
