Samuel Mbangula (foto: Getty Images)
Juventus winger Samuel Mbangula receives his first call-up to Belgium’s senior squad, filling in for the injured Malick Fofana ahead of crucial Nations League matches against Italy and Israel.
Belgium’s national team roster for the final Nations League fixtures has seen a late shake-up. With crucial matches against Italy and Israel approaching, the Red Devils are in a tight race with Italy and France for a place in the Nations League Final Eight. Every point counts as Belgium looks to finish strong.
Head coach Domenico Tedesco has had to adjust his plans after losing one of his key young talents, Malick Fofana. The 19-year-old winger, who joined Lyon from Gent in January for €19.5 million, suffered an injury in his latest Ligue 1 match against Saint-Etienne and will miss these pivotal games. Fofana’s absence left a gap in Tedesco’s lineup, especially as the team needs speed and creativity on the wings.
In his place, Tedesco has called up Samuel Mbangula, a promising 19-year-old winger currently with Juventus. This is Mbangula’s first-ever invitation to the senior national squad, marking a rapid rise in his career. Originally from Belgium’s youth ranks, Mbangula’s recent performances under Thiago Motta have turned heads. He broke into the Juventus senior squad this season and has already made appearances in both Serie A and the Champions League.
Mbangula’s trajectory has been impressive: from playing in Italy’s Serie C to getting a national team call-up in just six months. This sudden rise has fans and analysts buzzing, as Belgium’s winger lineup now has a fresh face who’s eager to prove himself on the international stage.