De Bruyne says Italy must change its mindset before Rome

The first match of Belgium's Nations League campaign, which will be played in Rome this Friday at 20 h 45, is the crucial starting point for the Red Devils. Kevin De Bruyne, questioned on Tuesday by the press, highlighted the importance of a good start.

A high‑level group

Belgium competes in Group A of League A, alongside Italy, France and Turkey. Mark van Bommel’s men carry the national hopes in this tough group. Each match will be decisive for the final standings.

“It’s a mini‑tournament. There will be many new coaches,” Kevin De Bruyne said on the RTBF and RTL Sports microphones. He added that the primary goal was to start well, then consider going further. According to him, the staff’s directives will guide the first four matches before assessing the last two fixtures.

Regarding Italy, De Bruyne believes that “Italy needs to change its mindset a bit.” He notes a generational transition, three consecutive World Cup eliminations and a new project focused on youth. This evolution, he says, could alter the group’s dynamics.

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Coach selection and outlook

When asked about the appointment of Mark van Bommel, Kevin De Bruyne explained that the decision came from the management and that sometimes the initial plan must evolve. He emphasized the importance of giving the coach time, recalling that Belgium had reached the World Cup quarter‑finals, a good result compared with a previous elimination against Senegal.

De Bruyne also spoke about the young core of the squad, recently bolstered by a few big signings. “It will help the group grow,” he said, adding that this surge of potential could be decisive ahead of Euro 2028. He stressed the desire to implement the coach’s tactical wishes.

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After the duel in Rome, the Red Devils will face France at the King Baudouin Stadium next Monday at 20 h 45, then Turkey in Sclessin the following Friday, also at 20 h 45. A second match against France is scheduled for September 5 in Paris, before the November fixtures: November 12 in Turkey and November 15 at home against Italy.