Thys is so far the most successful national team manager in history. He led the Red Devils to and at five big tournaments. He was known for his ‘rabbit’s foot”, his kind approach and his inseparable cigar. A real father figure who aimed to resolve the rare conflict in a diplomatic manner. Thys let everyone have their say and regularly asked the media for their opinion. In the end, he did it his way, which did not turn out too bad.

Period:  22/05/1976 – 09/06/1989  en 26/05/1990 – 01/05/1991

Official matches : 114

Big tournaments: 5 (European Championships in 1980 and 1984, and 1982,1986 and 1990 World Cup)