It has been a tough few weeks for Belgium boss Roberto Martinez. Firstly there was a considerable backlash when Roma midfielder Radja Nainggolan was left out of the provisional World Cup squad. Then, the finalised squad was apparently leaked on live TV as footage of 23 labeled matresses emerged.
It appears Belgium's World Cup squad leaked because the company supplying its mattresses for Russia put 23 nametags on them and a picture got out. Which is super adorable and also very Belgian. pic.twitter.com/BpC2L2YNEs
— Leander Schaerlaeckens (@LeanderAlphabet) June 1, 2018
Belgian broadcaster VRT apparently shot footage that clearly identified the 23 names who would travel to Russia. The images suggest Matz Sels, Christian Kabasele, Jordan Lukaku, Leander Dendoncker and Adnan Januzaj will all be cut from the squad. The controversy has been labeled 'mattress-gate' within Belguim.
Speaking to the press, Martinez denied this was true and claimed he hadn't even picked a squad.
I do not think there is a lot to explain. There is no truth whatsoever that the story is bringing light on the final 23. Then there is a little bit of disappointment. This is information that goes to the fans, to the players, to the players’ families.
The truth is that we are unfortunately getting used to seeing stories that do not really affect us. Unfortunately, we are not talking about Portugal and the effort that the players are putting into becoming a stronger team. If I was pushed now to give the list, I would not be able to give it to you.
Belgium face Portugal in an upcoming friendly as they continue preparation for group G of World Cup, along with England Panama and Tunisia.
