Music battles in the Belgian squad: why Arthur Theate lost the DJ spot

After Belgium’s convincing win over Senegal, centre‑back Arthur Theate was handed the squad’s music box, only to see his playlist rejected and his turn cut short, as teammate Timothy Castagne joked that the team promptly put him on the bench. The banter highlights the informal competition that runs alongside the on‑field rivalry within the Red Devils’ dressing room.

Timothy Castagne recalled the moment with a grin, noting that Arthur Theate was the first to cue the music after the Senegal win. "After Senegal Arthur first put the music on, but his choices were not top. We put him on the bench," Castagne laughed.

Alexis Saelemaekers then took over the turntables, and according to his teammates his selections were clearly better received. His brief stint was praised as a more suitable soundtrack for the squad.

Castagne added that there is no single permanent mood‑maker within the Belgian national team. He explained that the role shifts depending on the moment.

He also mentioned that differing musical tastes sometimes spark debate among the players. “There are different styles and sometimes there is debate,” he said.

Besides Saelemaekers, Diego Moreira and Amadou Onana are also frequently called upon to provide the musical atmosphere. Both have earned the approval of their teammates for their playlists.

For Arthur Theate, a career as a locker‑room DJ appears unlikely for now. On the pitch he remains a starter, but he will need to win over his colleagues before handling the music again.