Mannaert, who has worked closely with Clement during their time together at Club Brugge, is believed to be a key influence in the discussions surrounding the Belgian national team’s managerial future.
Clement, who has built a solid reputation with his success at Brugge, including winning multiple Belgian league titles and impressing in European competitions, is seen as a strong candidate to lead Belgium into the next era. His familiarity with the Belgian footballing landscape, along with his ability to manage top-level talent, could make him a natural fit to succeed the outgoing coach, Roberto MartÃnez.
The personal connection with Mannaert could also give Clement an edge in securing the role, as it’s likely to foster a strong working relationship between the coach and the Belgian FA. While the decision has yet to be officially confirmed, Clement’s rise to the top of the list shows that the Belgian FA is looking to bring in someone with a deep understanding of the country’s footballing culture and a track record of success at the club level.