Bellamy reiterates commitment to Wales

  • Craig Bellamy has reiterated his commitment to Wales, despite having held talks with Burnley over the summer.

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Bellamy seemed close to joining Burnley as a replacement for Scott Parker, after the former midfielder was sacked towards the end of last season.

Wales granted Bellamy permission to hold talks with Burnley, despite the 47 year-old having two years left to run on his contract.

However, Bellamy pulled out of talks with the Clarets, and he is instead fully focused on leading Wales into Euro 2028, which will be co-hosted by England, Republic of Ireland, Scotland and Wales.

"I had a decision to make and I made it," Bellamy said. "It didn't break down. I said no, it's not for me. That was it. There was no walking away from discussions. It wasn't for me.

"I made the decision to stay because this is the right place for me.

"We had a conversation but I was already in a role and this was what I wanted.

"It was flattering – we all like our ego being exercised and being wanted – but for me, my partner, my kids, this is the place and we didn't see anything else being able to move that."

Wales is in the top flight of the Nations League for the 2026-2027 edition of the tournament.

It will take on Portugal, Denmark and Norway in their group games over the next two international windows.

Bellamy has overseen 20 matches in charge of Wales, winning eight of those.

Wales missed out on qualifying for the World Cup, losing to Bosnia-Herzegovina on penalties in a play-off in March.

"I know how it could be seen, but I've only got one person I have anything to prove to, and that's me," Bellamy said. "I'm comfortable with the decision I've made. I've always been committed to everything I do and that hasn't changed.

"Now, winning people over? I don't know, that's the honest truth."

Craig Douglas Bellamy
Craig Douglas Bellamy
Wales