Kevin De Bruyne confirmed on September 22, 2026, that he did not hesitate to continue his international career with the Belgian national team following the World Cup, citing physical readiness and encouragement from teammates as primary motivators under newly appointed head coach Mark van Bommel.
Midfielder Kevin De Bruyne has dismissed speculation regarding an international retirement, confirming his commitment to the Belgian national team as preparations begin for an upcoming Nations League schedule. Following the departure of Axel Witsel from the squad and the absence of Thibaut Courtois, De Bruyne remains one of the final active members of the country’s preceding generation of players.
Motivation to Continue and the Role of Teammates
Addressing reporters, the midfielder stated that continuing his career with the national team was not a difficult decision. While newly appointed coach Mark van Bommel inquired about his intentions, the physical enjoyment of the game and direct appeals from his peers ultimately guided his choice.
Kevin De Bruyne stated via Sporza that the national coach did ask him what he wanted to do, adding that his feeling after the World Cup was that he had enjoyed himself, and noting that many players had also asked him to stay.
Physical fitness and an ongoing desire to compete at a high level reinforced that decision. Rather than seeking a temporary break from international fixtures similar to arrangements made by other players, the midfielder intends to remain available for the squad.
Kevin De Bruyne explained via Sporza that he also felt physically good and still had the desire to play, calling that the most important motivation and asking why he should not keep going as long as he still has that motivation.
First Impressions of Mark van Bommel
The transition under manager Mark van Bommel marks a distinct phase for the national setup. Admitting he did not follow domestic Belgian football closely prior to the appointment, De Bruyne met the Dutch coach during a direct visit to Naples.
Describing the incoming technical staff, the player noted that the managerial style features a transparent approach. Kevin De Bruyne observed following an initial training session under the new direction that the coach is quite straightforward in his interactions, noting that suits him well and that he appreciates simply having someone who tells it like it is.
Club Form at Napoli and Past Friction
At the club level, the player’s situation in Italy has experienced notable shifts. A severe hamstring injury sustained in October 2025 sidelined him for four months, interrupting his integration into the squad under former manager Antonio Conte. Public friction characterized the relationship during that tenure, with the player noting a lack of alignment regarding tactical positioning.
The arrival of Max Allegri has altered that dynamic, restoring the midfielder to a more favored role as an attacking playmaker. Club performances in continental competition, including a recent narrow defeat to Arsenal and assists delivered for teammate Rasmus Højlund against Sporting CP, demonstrate a sustained creative capacity despite a transition away from the explosive pace that marked his years in the Premier League.
Shifting Responsibilities for Younger Generations
As he enters what he perceives as the final stages of his career, the veteran playmaker emphasized the necessity of transferring leadership duties to emerging talent within the squad.
Kevin De Bruyne acknowledged via Sporza that a day will certainly come when he says it is no longer necessary, though he noted that is not yet a thought haunting his mind, while adding that he does think these are his final two years.
Highlighting the importance of developmental continuity, he pointed to figures such as Romeo Lavia as examples of long-term potential within the national setup, stressing that younger squad members must absorb leadership responsibilities before the departure of the remaining senior figures.
Nations League Schedule and Expectations
Belgium faces an intensive stretch of fixtures in the Nations League, featuring a four-match sequence against France, Italy, and Turkey. Given the physical demands of playing four matches within an eleven-day window, squad rotation is anticipated.
While expressing satisfaction with his current competitive level following a full 90-minute appearance over the weekend, the team captain maintains a cautious outlook regarding immediate tournament victories, prioritizing instead the gradual growth of a developing squad over the next two years.