Bellamy commits to Wales job despite Burnley and Celtic interest ahead of Euro 2028

Craig Bellamy has pledged his future to Wales, revealing he has received offers from club football but has no intention of walking away from the national job he describes as “unique, full stop.”

The 46-year-old, who is halfway through a four-year contract, has been linked with managerial vacancies at Burnley and Celtic in recent weeks — clubs with which he has personal history as Vincent Kompany’s assistant at Turf Moor and as a player at Parkhead two decades ago. The Press Association understands there have been tentative approaches from clubs, though no direct contact was made with the Football Association of Wales.

Speaking ahead of Wales’ home friendly against Ghana at Cardiff City Stadium on Tuesday — the first time the Dragons have hosted an African side, played to mark the FAW’s 150th anniversary — Bellamy was clear about his priorities. “I’ve been offered that elsewhere as well, but I have this here already,” he said. “Wales gave me this opportunity and one or two might not have because I haven’t managed before.”

Wales missed out on a second-successive World Cup after falling at the play-off stage in March, but Bellamy’s focus has shifted firmly to Euro 2028, which will be co-hosted by the United Kingdom and Ireland. The prospect of a home tournament, potentially including matches at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff, is central to his thinking.

“It’s an amazing time and I don’t want to wish that away,” Bellamy said. “And then to have the opportunity of a home nations tournament and going to the Principality Stadium — I can only imagine what the streets would be like leading into it.”

Born and raised in Cardiff, Bellamy framed his commitment in personal as well as professional terms, noting that representing his country has always taken precedence over club ambitions. “No matter what club I’ve been at, my country is the most important thing,” he said.

He also acknowledged the scrutiny that came with his appointment as a first-time manager. “The word temperament gets used a lot. What’s he going to be like? Is he going to explode? I understand a lot of it. But Wales have given me this opportunity and I’m really grateful for that.”

Wales conclude their current international window with a friendly against Romania in Bucharest on Saturday.