Kevin De Bruyne’s frustration has reached boiling point after Belgium's disappointing 2-0 loss to France in the UEFA Nations League.
The Manchester City star was seen venting his anger on the sidelines, sparking speculation that he might step away from international football.
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De Bruyne’s frustration boils over
After the loss, De Bruyne didn’t hold back as he appeared to tell Belgium technical director Frank Vercauteren, "I quit. I quit." The footage, captured at Parc Olympique Lyonnais, added fuel to growing speculation about the 33-year-old’s international future.
In a fiery post-match interview, De Bruyne slammed Belgium’s performance, insisting they need to improve "in every way." He said, “If you can’t handle the top, you aren’t good enough. If you stay with six at the back, there is no connection. It’s over if we don’t give everything."
🗣️ | Kevin De Bruyne at full-time in their 2-0 loss vs. France: “I quit! I quit!” 🤬
— City Chief (@City_Chief) September 10, 2024
Later: “Some things are unacceptable. If you can't handle the top, you aren't good enough.”pic.twitter.com/09NQiEfVUo
De Bruyne’s harsh words followed Belgium’s lacklustre display, with goals from Randal Kolo Muani and Ousmane Dembele sealing their fate. The midfielder, who has represented his country for 14 years, was clearly at the end of his tether.
Tedesco responds to De Bruyne’s outburst
Belgium head coach Domenico Tedesco wasn’t surprised by De Bruyne’s reaction.
“He is our captain and has a huge winning mentality, so he can also react emotionally,” Tedesco said. “We had chances, but we didn’t score. It’s a problem we’ve had for a long time.”
De Bruyne’s passion for winning is undeniable, but for Belgium fans, the question remains: Is their captain about to call time on his international career?
