Kevin De Bruyne Confirms Belgium Future, Shares Thoughts on Van Bommel and Euro 2028 Ambitions
Kevin De Bruyne has ended doubts about his international career by confirming he will keep playing for Belgium under new coach Mark van Bommel. The 35-year-old Napoli midfielder is aiming for Euro 2028 as a possible endpoint but hasn’t ruled out playing beyond that.
After returning to the Tubize training ground, De Bruyne revealed he never seriously considered quitting after the World Cup. With key veterans like Axel Witsel retiring and Thibaut Courtois stepping away from Nations League duty, De Bruyne feels motivated to stay involved.
He sees the European Championship hosted in the UK and Ireland as a logical farewell target but remains open to other possibilities.
Impressions of New Head Coach Mark van Bommel
De Bruyne met Van Bommel recently in Naples and shared positive views on the Dutchman’s approach. Initially unfamiliar with him, the playmaker appreciated Van Bommel’s straightforward style.
“A typical Dutchman,” De Bruyne said with a laugh. “Quite direct in his demeanour. That suits me well, just someone who says it like it is. Van Bommel asked me what I wanted to do. I told him that I was here to help him.”
Motivation from Teammates and Fitness Levels
The midfielder credited encouragement from teammates for persuading him to stay with the Red Devils. Younger squad members urged him not to retire, which gave him extra energy. De Bruyne also expressed surprise at how sharp he still feels physically, having played multiple full matches for Napoli.
“Many players asked me to stay with the Red Devils after the World Cup. That gives me energy,” De Bruyne explained. “As long as I still have that motivation, why shouldn’t I keep going? Pushing your limits every day and trying to play as well as possible.”
Guiding Belgium’s Next Generation
De Bruyne acknowledged Belgium is entering a critical transition phase where younger players must take on leadership roles. With 124 caps to his name, he aims to mentor emerging talent during the upcoming Nations League fixtures against France, Italy, and Turkey.
“I wouldn’t want the younger players to suddenly experience a shock when we retire,” De Bruyne said. “They need to feel now what it is like to carry a team.”
- UEFA Nations League Fixture: Italy vs Belgium
- Date & Time: 25 September 2026, 21:45
