Van Bommel bets on rotation, Zidane on turnover

While Zinedine Zidane chose a complete overhaul of the eleven during the international break, Mark van Bommel prefers to spread playing time and is already preparing changes for Friday.

Squad management during the break

The international break, exceptionally long with four matches played by the national teams, forces every coach to optimise his squad. Zinedine Zidane opted for a massive turnover, while Mark van Bommel is betting on a division of playing time.

Van Bommel nevertheless knows that on Friday he will have to intervene in the eleven, even though he does not anticipate major upheavals. He said the adjustments will be guided by tactics rather than fatigue.

Tactical changes to the eleven

Between Friday and Monday, Nicolas Raskin gave up his place to Roméo Lavia, and Maxim De Cuyper, struggling in Rome, was replaced by Joaquin Seys. These changes reflect a desire to adjust the setup rather than respond to physical constraints.

“I found him incredible tonight. But now that he’s finally fit, we must make sure he stays that way,” said Mark van Bommel about Roméo Lavia’s performance.

Lavia shines, Ngoy five stars, De Bruyne far from Rome

Lavia’s quarter of a star will probably not be reproduced on Friday, as Van Bommel points out: “By starting him today, I knew full well that he would probably not start on Friday.” This decision shows the coach’s tactical caution.

The substitution benefits Nicolas Raskin, who will be able to reunite with Sclessin, while Diego Moreira remains suspended. This development strengthens the depth of the Belgian squad.

“It was starting to become hard for him, so I brought Maxim De Cuyper in,” Van Bommel explained, justifying the removal of Joaquin Seys. Cuyper’s return aims to stabilise the left side.

Kevin De Bruyne started the first two matches, playing about an hour at high intensity. Van Bommel added that Hans Vanaken is a simple option to replace him, recalling his duels between Antwerp and Bruges: “Every time I played with Antwerp against Bruges, I knew how difficult it was to face Hans, he’s a superb player.”

It is possible that Kevin De Bruyne will be rested on Friday, and it is unlikely that Van Bommel will make nine changes, unlike his counterpart who had planned a massive overhaul at the King Baudouin Stadium.