See What Happened
Eden Hazard decided to retire from international football after Belgium’s premature exit from the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, which also marked the end of former coach Roberto Martinez’s reign.
His successor, Domenico Tedesco, was tasked with selecting a new leader for the Red Devils.
The 37-year-old manager has confirmed De Bruyne as Belgium’s new skipper ahead of their Euro 2024 qualifying campaign.
At the moment, the Manchester City star is boasting 97 caps for his country and 25 goals at international level.
See What Was Said
“It’s an honour for me to be named and represent the country in this way,” De Bruyne told RTL-TVI television.
“I’m almost 32. I’ve never considered international retirement. I think I can still bring something to the table and help the youngsters.”
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The Bigger Picture
Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois and Inter forward Romelu Lukaku have been chosen as the two vice-captains.
De Bruyne has already led Belgium on several occasions previously, including against Croatia in their final group-stage game of the 2022 World Cup.
De Bruyne’s era as the full-time Belgian captain will start on Friday March 24, 2023 against Sweden in a 2024 European Championship Qualifier.
