Bellamy 'committed' to Wales after Burnley talks

What the report says

Craig Bellamy has said he remains fully committed to Wales after confirming he turned down a summer approach from Burnley. The BBC Sport Wales report says the Championship club spoke to Bellamy after relegation from the Premier League and that the Football Association of Wales allowed the discussions to take place in June because Burnley had activated a compensation clause.

Bellamy, who was appointed Wales head coach on a four-year deal in July 2024, said the offer was flattering but that he decided it was not the right move for him. He stressed that the talks did not collapse and that he simply chose to stay in his current role, adding that his family was also settled in Wales. He said he has nothing to prove to anyone other than himself.

The comments came as Bellamy named a 28-man squad for Wales’ Nations League A matches against Portugal, Denmark and Norway. He acknowledged the challenge of the schedule and the absence of injured defenders Joe Rodon and Dylan Lawlor, but said he was excited by the chance to work with a refreshed coaching team that includes Alan Sheehan and Ashley Williams.

Bellamy also reiterated his ambition to still be in charge for Euro 2028, which could include home matches in Cardiff, while noting that managerial jobs are always uncertain.