Kevin De Bruyne’s tattoo tribute: why the Manchester City star kissed his arm

Kevin De Bruyne celebrated his goal for Belgium with a kiss on his tattooed right arm, dedicating the moment to his family. The tattoo features the silhouettes of his three children alongside his wife, Michèle Lacroix, who was watching from the stands in Seattle. De Bruyne, nine years married to Lacroix, confirmed the tribute after scoring Belgium’s third goal against New Zealand. “I am nine years married to my wife who was here,” he told . “And my children were watching on TV in Los Angeles. That’s the tattoo of my children. Very important.” The Belgian midfielder’s right arm bears the permanent reminder of his family, a design he revealed has become a ritual after every goal. Lacroix was in the tribune when the celebration unfolded, receiving a heart symbol directed toward her as De Bruyne completed his hat-trick. Mason, the eldest of the couple’s three children, had recently watched Belgium’s goalless draw with Iran from the stands in tears. This time, the youngster’s reaction was likely to be different, given his father’s contribution to the win. “My family is in America during the World Cup,” De Bruyne said in March. “They won’t stay in Seattle. I have made arrangements for my family. I want them with me. They should enjoy the tournament.”

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The midfielder has ensured his wife and children are present for key moments, arranging accommodations outside the Belgian team’s base. His commitment to family visibility contrasts with the absence of some partners during international tournaments. De Bruyne’s public displays of affection for his tattoo and family have become a recurring theme in his celebrations, blending professional achievement with personal pride. The gesture underscores the significance of his private life in his public persona. Lacroix, seated in the stands, witnessed the celebration firsthand as her husband marked his third goal of the match. The family’s presence in the United States during the World Cup reflects De Bruyne’s prioritisation of their shared experiences over logistical convenience. The Belgian squad’s 3-0 victory over New Zealand provided a platform for De Bruyne to reinforce his connection to his family, both visually and emotionally. His post-goal ritual has evolved into a symbol of his dual identity as a top athlete and devoted father.