Burnley appoint little-known Belgian as new manager after talks over Craig Bellamy return collapsed

Burnley have announced the appointment of Belgian Nicky Hayen as their new head coach, with the 45-year-old signing a three-year contract at Turf Moor. Hayen joins the Championship club from Pro League side Genk, where he most recently oversaw a seventh-placed finish. He takes over from Scott Parker, who departed in April following the Clarets' relegation from the Premier League. Hayen’s recent managerial career includes guiding Club Brugge to a league title in 2024 and a cup triumph the following year, before being sacked last December after a downturn in form. Burnley chairman Alan Pace expressed his vision for the club under the new leadership, stating: "This is a considered appointment that fits how we intend to run the club. We have backed a clear footballing plan within a sustainable model and Nicky has the support to deliver it. Our focus now is a strong season and a return to the Premier League on solid foundations." Addressing the supporters, Hayen said: "I’m pleased to be joining a club with real history and supporters who care deeply about it. I know most of them won’t know much about me yet – that’s fair and it’s on me to change it." The club turned their attention to Hayen after an earlier move for Wales manager Craig Bellamy collapsed. Bellamy previously spent two years at Burnley as Vincent Kompany’s assistant between 2022 and 2024 after previously working alongside the former Manchester City captain at Anderlecht. He had looked set to return to Turf Moor last month, but talks broke down, and he will now remain in charge of the Welsh national team. Bellamy is set to lead Wales through their Euro 2028 qualification campaign, as they look to book their place in the tournament that will be held across the UK and Ireland. The 46-year-old has overseen 20 Wales matches, and has a record of eight wins, six draws and six defeats. He guided Wales into the World Cup play-offs, but they were knocked out in the semi-finals by Bosnia and Herzegovina on penalties. Wales have failed to win their last three matches since that loss.