Bellamy says negativity has hurt his family, but Norway win lifts mood
Wales manager Craig Bellamy has revealed that public criticism directed at him has also affected his family, though the team's win over Norway has eased tensions.
Wales national team manager Craig Bellamy, who took charge in July 2024, spoke candidly in a lengthy news conference following his side's victory over Norway about the criticism he has faced from some supporters.
Bellamy became a target of fan frustration over the summer after it emerged he had held talks with Burnley over a possible move away from the Wales job. The episode drew disapproval from parts of the public, leaving the manager facing pointed criticism.
Family affected
Bellamy revealed that the negative attention aimed at him has not been limited to himself but has also reached his family. He said that as a father and husband, it matters to him that his children and wife are exposed to this treatment, since the burden falls on them too, not just on him.
The manager acknowledged that this kind of environment was something he had already experienced during his playing career, but he called for people to reconsider how they speak about one another. In his view, passion for football does not give anyone the right to say whatever they want without consequence.
A call for unity
Bellamy expressed surprise that in such a small country as Wales, people are not more willing to support one another. He said he wished the public would be kinder and look after each other more.
He added, however, that he does not believe everyone is beyond criticism, but that in his view, criticism is currently handed out too easily and too quickly.
