Belgian Media React as Arne Engels Impresses on First National Team Start

The Belgian media have been full of praise for Celtic’s Arne Engels after he made his first start for his country’s senior team last night.

The 21-year-old got the nod for Belgium’s match at home to Italy in UEFA Nations League A Group 2.

Although the visitors won 1-0 courtesy of a first-half Sandro Tonali strike, Engels impressed before he was subbed off on 71 minutes.

Indeed, the media in his homeland have complemented his performance despite the loss.

Het Laatste Nieuws (via The National) praised Engels’ ‘maturity’, hailing his accurate passing ability as key when Belgium had the ball.

Elsewhere, De Standaard (via The National) noted the midfielder’s battling defensive work, writing: “Engels was tireless in winning the ball back and displayed impressive stamina throughout the entire match.”

Future Potential

Just like at Celtic, it would appear there are high hopes for Engels on the national team front.

Indeed, La Libre Belgique reckons he can nail down a consistent starting place in the Belgian engine room: “Engels proved that he is ready for the highest level and can become a mainstay in the Red Devils’ midfield,” they wrote (via The National).

Although teenage RB Leipzig midfielder Arthur Vermeeren replaced Engels in the second half, he will be eager to keep his place in the team when Belgium play Israel in Hungary on Sunday evening. He impressed last night, but the youngster may have an even better opportunity to catch the eye in the next match.

After that, though, Engels’ full attention returns to Celtic ahead of what manager Brendan Rodgers has described as an ‘ultramarathon’ of Games.

Things kick off with a trip to Tynecastle next weekend before the Hoops face Engels’ old academy side, Club Brugge, in the UEFA Champions League.