Belgium Talent Chief Fired After Talbi Chose Morocco
Chemsdine Talbi has turned his back on Belgium to play for Morocco after tabling an official request to change his football nationality. Belgium were left reeling following the decision of the budding star which has piled pressure on football bosses in the country to keep hold of dual-nationality talents.
Kevin Vermeulen, Belgium's Head of Talent, has been shown the door as a result of this decision, and amid a major shake-up to the department. Vermeulen, who worked with Talbi at RSC Anderlecht, had tried to lure him to the club but played no part in his final to ditch Belgium.
Sports director Vincent Mannaert didn't hide his frustration. 'From now on, we move forward with players who fully commit to Belgium,' he said. 'If they choose elsewhere, fine — but we won't waste time chasing them.'
Talbi picked Morocco for showing unwavering support during his injury woes – while Belgium dragged its feet. Insiders say Morocco's thrilling World Cup run and their fierce loyalty to players sealed the deal for him.
The blow comes just days after Kos Karetsas chose Greece over Belgium.
Talbi can play both as a left and right winger. Even though he is right-footed, he can shoot well with his left foot like the goal he scored in the UEFA Champions League play-offs against Atalanta.
The 19-year-old FC has blistering speed and a direct attacking play – quite similar to Hakimi at the front. He is expected to join the Moroccan national team very soon for the World Cup qualifiers and friendly games.
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