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The National (Scotland)
The National (Scotland)
Sport
James McLaughlin

REVEALED: Despite being linked with celtic this is why ive stayed put at my current job - The Real Truth

(Image: PA)

Ex-Celtic managerial candidate Craig Bellamy has revealed he turned down the chance to become Burnley boss this summer because Wales was "the right place" for him and his family.

The former Celtic target was strongly linked with the Parkhead dugout before Brendan Rodgers' return in 2023 and has since established himself as Wales manager after succeeding Rob Page in 2024.

Bellamy had looked set to return to Burnley, where he previously worked as Vincent Kompany's assistant between 2022 and 2024, after the Championship club received permission to speak to him from the Football Association of Wales.

However, the 47-year-old opted to remain with the national team. He said: "I worked two years there and had a good relationship with them.

"It was flattering; we all like our ego being exercised and being wanted, but for me, my partner, my kids, this is the place and we didn’t see anything else being able to move that."


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Bellamy, who previously described the Wales job as "the best in the world," admitted he understands why some supporters questioned his discussions with Burnley but insisted his commitment to the national side has never wavered.

He added: "I’ve never moved from anything I’ve ever done for money, and I’m not going to change now. I’m comfortable with the decision I’ve made and I’ve always been committed in everything I do.

"That hasn’t changed."

Wales begin their Nations League A campaign later this month with away fixtures against Portugal and Denmark before hosting Norway and Denmark in Cardiff in October.

While Bellamy has previously spoken of his desire to lead Wales into Euro 2028, he stopped short of guaranteeing he will still be in charge. He said: "Oh, I’d love to, but that’s two years from now.

"Nothing’s guaranteed. I’m no different; I’m not more special than anyone else."

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