Belgium's World Cup preparations have hit a major roadblock, as head coach Rudi Garcia faces the very real possibility of entering the tournament without star defender Zeno Debast. The 21-year-old, who made a high-profile move from Anderlecht to Sporting CP in 2024, suffered a thigh injury during training that has been described as "concerning" by Belgian outlet HLN.

Debast's absence would leave a gaping hole in an already vulnerable backline. While Club Brugge veteran Brandon Mechele, 33, provides some experience, the rest of Belgium's central defensive options are all under 25—a mix of young talent that has struggled with consistency. For a team that prides itself on its golden generation legacy, this injury comes at the worst possible time.

The timing couldn't be more critical. Belgium's 2022 World Cup campaign in Qatar was marred by key absences, including a struggling Romelu Lukaku, and the team's attack suffered as a result. Now, the focus is not only on getting Lukaku back to full fitness but also on securing eligibility for rising star Matias Fernandez Pardo.

Debast, who has been a revelation since joining Sporting, scored twice and provided four assists in 48 appearances during his debut season in Portugal. This season, he has already featured 24 times, making his potential absence a double blow for both club and country. If he is to recover in time for the World Cup, his club season may effectively be over.

For fans and pundits alike, this is a stark reminder that Belgium's defensive depth remains a work in progress. As the World Cup draws near, Garcia will be hoping for a miracle recovery—or that his young defenders can step up when it matters most.