Kevin De Bruyne will probably retire from international duty with Belgium after the 2026 World Cup, as the midfielder stated in an extensive interview with Het Laatste Nieuws. 'I’ve been around long enough.'
Kevin De Bruyne, a pivotal figure for both Manchester City and Belgium's national team, recently opened up about his future with the Red Devils.
For a brief moment, he considered retiring from international football after the last European Championship. However, the midfielder feels that he still has more to give. "I feel good," De Bruyne explained. "And if you want to play another World Cup, you can’t say that you’re no longer available and then suddenly come back. That’s not fair to the group." His decision reflects his commitment to the team, emphasizing the importance of consistency and loyalty.
However, De Bruyne also hinted that the 2026 World Cup might be his last international tournament. "Most likely," said the 33-year-old playmaker. "Look, players like Cristiano Ronaldo and Luka Modric, they just keep going. Most people aren’t like that. Let’s be realistic: after the World Cup, I’ll be 35." His comments show a pragmatic approach to the demands of elite football, especially as he balances his international duties with his role at Manchester City, where he remains a key player.
This season, De Bruyne faces an exceptionally busy schedule at City. In addition to their domestic campaign, the Citizens are also contending with extra Champions League fixtures and the Club World Cup. "I can say whatever I want," De Bruyne sighed, referring to the packed calendar. "In the end, I don’t have a say in it." He also acknowledged the harsh reality for older players in modern football. Even if stars complain that the schedule is too intense, the clubs and organizations will likely turn to younger players who can handle the pace. "They’ll just find other players who are only twenty and can handle the pace. And if we say something, there’s a fuss that we earn a lot of money and have a good life," he added. Despite this, De Bruyne emphasized that if he needs rest, he can always count on the understanding of the national coach.
As De Bruyne prepares to lead Belgium in their Nations League campaign, he finds himself in a leadership role like never before. On Friday, the Belgians will face Israel in Hungary, followed by a crucial match against France on Monday. With the retirement of Jan Vertonghen and the absence of Romelu Lukaku and Thibaut Courtois, De Bruyne is now the last remaining member of Belgium's renowned Golden Generation in coach Domenico Tedesco’s squad. This added responsibility underscores his importance to the team as they navigate a period of transition, with younger talents looking up to him for guidance.
De Bruyne’s international journey has been one of resilience and consistency, and while his potential retirement after the 2026 World Cup marks the end of an era, it also highlights the evolution of Belgium’s national team. The veteran midfielder’s presence in the Nations League and the upcoming World Cup will be crucial as Belgium looks to compete on the international stage once again, hoping to capitalize on the remaining years of their most iconic player’s international career.
