Belgium’s Mousa Dembélé Focused on Fitness Ahead of World Cup Return
Belgian international Mousa Dembélé is fully focused on regaining match fitness ahead of the 2014 FIFA World Cup, despite carrying a lingering ankle injury that has affected him throughout the season.
The Tottenham Hotspur midfielder, who has been a regular feature in Belgium’s midfield setup, joined the national team camp as Marc Wilmots’ side intensifies preparations for the tournament in Brazil. While Dembélé’s inclusion raised eyebrows due to concerns over his physical condition, the 26-year-old insists he is working hard to return to full strength in time for Belgium’s opening match.
Speaking to Belgian broadcaster RTBF, the former Fulham and AZ Alkmaar player said: “No one is holding back. We’re training hard and at 100% intensity. Everyone must be fit for the World Cup. The coach understands this, so we train twice a day to build our rhythm, especially with the friendlies coming up.”
Dembélé, who missed several weeks towards the end of the Premier League season due to the injury, acknowledged the challenge of regaining top form. “For me, it’s crucial,” he added. “I was injured for two months and didn’t play much recently. It’s always harder coming back from an injury. It’s easier for those who haven’t had physical issues.”
The Brussels-born midfielder, whose parents are of Malian descent, also expressed his admiration for rising star Divock Origi. The Lille forward was a surprise inclusion in Wilmots’ provisional squad and has impressed during training sessions.
“I didn’t know Origi very well before,” Dembélé admitted. “But I’ve seen in training that he’s a fantastic player. We’re happy to have him. I believe he has a very bright future.”
Looking ahead to Belgium’s next friendly against Sweden, Dembélé expects a more rigorous test following their dominant 5–1 win over Luxembourg.
“Sweden will be more difficult. They’re a strong team, and with our intense training schedule, we may feel a bit tired on the pitch. But that’s part of the preparation,” he explained.
Despite not scoring for the national team in recent outings, Dembélé remains focused on contributing in other ways. “It doesn’t bother me that I haven’t scored in a while. If I can help the team in other ways and we win the World Cup, I’ll be happy—even without a goal.”
Belgium, considered dark horses by many pundits, will begin their World Cup campaign in Group H alongside Algeria, Russia, and South Korea.
