Belgium faces a major challenge on Monday night as they take on France in the Nations League at Stade de France. Head coach Mark van Bommel was reluctant to reveal his lineup, but Het Nieuwsblad managed to extract some answers from him.

Belgium is expected to face a difficult evening, not only because they will be up against France, but also due to the absence of two key players. Midfielders De Bruyne and Tielemans, with a combined 220 international appearances, are both suspended.

In the first leg last Monday, Belgium lost 0-1 to France in Brussels, and De Bruyne and Tielemans bore responsibility. Now, others must step up and show leadership. "I hope all the other players do that," said the Dutch coach.

"I can't make individuals better, but I can make the team better. Tielemans and De Bruyne are certainly very important, so it's a shame they're suspended. But if I prepare the team well, everyone should be able to contribute to the collective," Van Bommel said.

Journalist Jarno Bertho then asked Van Bommel whether he expected Lukaku to play a leadership role. Belgium's all-time leading goalscorer has been much discussed due to his limited playing time. "Yes, but I don't only expect that from players like Tielemans, De Bruyne, and Lukaku."

"That means they have to take all the responsibility. The entire team needs to do that. Other players also need to step up, and that's what's happening now. All the players are playing very well. As a coach, it's very enjoyable to see."

Van Bommel was then asked who would wear the captain's armband on Monday. "If I tell you that, you'll know who's playing, won't you? It will be someone from the starting eleven." The coach said with a smile, and also refused to confirm whether this captain had already worn the armband on Monday. "Besides, there are too many matches..."

Bertho quickly reminded him that only three players in Belgium's current squad have ever captained the national team: Castagne, Vanaken, and of course, Lukaku. Could it be one of those three? "Very likely," Van Bommel said with a smile.

The coach was then asked about his expectations for Lukaku on Monday. "So you're assuming he will play..." he said with a laugh. "Lukaku is a player who can draw two or three defenders, is very dangerous in front of goal, and still has his pace. If he plays, that's what I expect from him."

Finally, Van Bommel was also pressed about his midfield lineup. "How likely is it that Romeo Lavia, Raskin, and Vanaken will form the midfield? Because in reality, you only have these three midfielders left now..." Van Bommel smiled and said, "Sounds like you're the coach."

"It's possible, but I won't overthink it. You also can't expect me to tell you the starting lineup directly. The players know, and that's what matters most."

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