Craig Bellamy rejects Burnley manager job to stay with Wales
Quick summary
Craig Bellamy turned down the opportunity to become Burnley's manager, choosing to remain in charge of the Wales national team, saying he is in the 'right place'.
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Attributed to original source‘I’ve never done anything for money,’ Bellamy says
He was in intensive care last year after appendix rupture
Craig Bellamy said he rejected the chance to take charge of Burnley in the summer after deciding the Wales job is “the right place for me”. The 47-year-old was among the managers targeted by the Championship club, who appointed Nicky Hayen.
Bellamy is preparing to lead Wales in the Nations League, with next Thursday’s trip to Portugal the first of four matches across the extended international break. Bellamy spent two years on the staff at Burnley, working as an assistant to Vincent Kompany and taking caretaker charge after Kompany left for Bayern Munich. Burnley were granted permission to hold talks with him after a triggering release clause in his Wales contract.
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What happened
Wales head coach Craig Bellamy has revealed he declined an approach from Burnley to take over as their club manager. The former Wales captain, who took charge of the national team in 2024, indicated he felt staying with Wales was the right decision. Bellamy's commitment comes at a time when Wales are navigating their competitive fixtures, and his continued presence provides continuity for the squad. Burnley are currently searching for a new manager following their own transition.
Chance analysis
Bellamy's decision to stay with Wales reinforces the growing appeal of the national team job at a moment when club vacancies in the English pyramid are increasing. For Welsh football, retaining a young, progressive coach who is respected inside the dressing room matters: continuity at the top of the setup typically translates into stable squad planning and clearer tactical identity going into the next international windows. Burnley, meanwhile, will need to look elsewhere, a reminder of how attractive Championship posts remain even when competing against international football.
Wales retain their head coach, ensuring continuity in selection and tactical approach; Burnley must continue their managerial search.