The Belgian football federation has moved to distance itself from comments made by national team head coach Rudi Garcia following his criticism of Club Brugge’s decision to dismiss Nicky Hayen shortly before their Champions League clash with Arsenal last week.

Hayen was sacked on December 8 after Club Brugge slipped to third place in the Belgian Pro League, just 48 hours before hosting Arsenal in Europe. The timing of the decision drew strong criticism from Garcia, who described the move as “incomprehensible and unfair.”

“It’s illogical to dismiss a manager who has achieved great things, made his team play good football and delivered results in the Champions League,” Garcia said during a press conference on Thursday. “We need Belgian coaches like him. But I’m not a club president — for me, it’s a question of solidarity with fellow managers. I don’t like seeing coaches replaced so easily.”

Garcia’s remarks prompted a swift response from the Belgian Football Association, which sought to clarify its position and avoid any friction with one of the country’s most prominent clubs.

“It is reiterated that such a decision rests exclusively with the parties concerned and that this was an internal club matter, as in other similar situations,” federation spokesperson David Steegen said.

“The federation believes it is appropriate to focus on its own operations and ambitions.”

Club Brugge have since continued their domestic campaign as attention now turns back to their on-field performances following a turbulent week off the pitch.