Timothy Castagne wants to break Belgium's curse against the Blues
The match against France represents for Belgium the opportunity to end a run of defeats and prove the relevance of Mark van Bommel's new system. Timothy Castagne spoke before the duel, which will be played on September 28 at 20:45.
Absences and selection choices
Kylian Mbappé will not be able to take part in the match, a hyperextension of the posterior capsule of his left knee depriving him of any international period. Thomas Meunier, for his part, was not recalled by Van Bommel; the two players spoke and Meunier accepted the decision despite his frustration.
Timothy Castagne was present at the press conference, accompanied by manager Mark van Bommel, the day before the Belgium‑France duel in the Nations League. The right‑back of Fulham, playing in the Premier League, is the undisputed starter in his position.
Facing the Blues, the Belgians point out the depth of the French squad, which has a larger core than Italy’s and is progressing in the Euro, the World Cup and the Nations League. “Obviously, it changes a little, but the players they have behind, Barcola and Doué, are serious. They have so many qualities,” Castagne said.
Van Bommel misses Mbappé for Nations League clash against France
Since the 2015 victory over France, Belgium has only known setbacks. Castagne added: “We would really like to win this time. Last time (in the Nations League), we should have done better. Here, we have started well with the new system and the new coach.”
Young talents in the spotlight
Mika Godts stood out against Italy, showing great things in the Eredivisie. “Mika has quality, he has shown great things in the Eredivisie. It must have been a disappointment for him not to go to the World Cup,” Castagne added.
Nathan Ngoy was in the starting lineup against Italy, preferred over Arthur Theate and Zeno Debast. Castagne praised his physique: “Nathan is a top player, physically he is strong and fast.”
Van Bommel comes close to a historic feat with a win in Italy
Asked about the impact of Mbappé’s absence, Castagne admitted that he could have defended differently. “It’s true that they are not the same type of players as the others (Barcola, Doué and Cherki), but the teamwork remains the same.”