Johan Manzambi shifts to bench role for Belgium at World Cup

Johan Manzambi has established himself as a key player for SC Freiburg. The Belgian striker features regularly but faces a bench role for the national team. Belgium’s squad for the World Cup includes Manzambi, who has made 12 appearances this season for Freiburg. His club form contrasts with his limited starting opportunities in Roberto Martínez’s tactics. At Freiburg, Manzambi has scored four goals in 28 Bundesliga appearances. His pace and pressing have been crucial in Christian Streich’s system.

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For Belgium, Manzambi has been used primarily as a substitute in recent friendlies. Martínez has favored other attackers in starting lineups, restricting Manzambi to late-game impact. The 28-year-old now prepares for his first World Cup appearance. His role may be limited to cameo roles off the bench in Qatar. Streich has repeatedly praised Manzambi’s work rate and adaptability during training.