De Bruyne says teammates' support drives him to stay with Belgium
Kevin de Bruyne, 35, and Napoli midfielder, trained this Monday with the Belgian national team and, in statements to the public broadcaster RTBF on Tuesday, confirmed that he is happy to wear the red shirt again after “many players” asked him to continue.
The Belgian said: “Many players asked me to keep going and that made me want to continue. I come here to help the team.” His message underscores the influence of his teammates in the decision to extend his international career.
New role within the Red Devils
De Bruyne noted that his role is changing: younger players will have to take on increasingly more prominence. “The others have to take on a bit more responsibility. Responsibilities must shift hands gradually,” he said, indicating that his aim is to facilitate the generational transition.
In the same interview he explained that he feels “physically and mentally well” and is willing to contribute even if he is not a starter. “I have shown at Napoli that I can also bring interesting things from the bench,” he added, anticipating rotations in a schedule of four matches in eleven days.
Kevin De Bruyne pushes younger Red Devils to lead in Nations League
Relationship with coach Mark van Bommel
The veteran expressed satisfaction with the new manager, the Dutch Mark van Bommel, who is Belgium’s sixth coach since its debut in 2010. “I knew very little about Mark van Bommel before his arrival. He is very direct when he speaks. I think I understand where he wants to go,” De Bruyne explained, highlighting the early positive contacts.
De Bruyne remains part of the Belgian “golden generation,” alongside Romelu Lukaku and Thibaut Courtois, although the Real Madrid goalkeeper has decided not to take part in the Nations League.
Kevin De Bruyne confirms resilience with the Red Devils
The midfielder concluded that, despite the changes, his commitment remains intact: “I am still here to help the group, but now it is their turn to take the reins.” With the next series of matches on the horizon, De Bruyne appears ready to contribute both on and off the pitch.