Kevin De Bruyne Prioritises Recovery Over National Duty

Belgium’s captain and Man City talisman, Kevin De Bruyne, has opted to step away from international duties temporarily as he continues to manage his demanding schedule. After sustaining a thigh injury in Man City’s goalless draw against Inter Milan in the Champions League, De Bruyne has missed several key fixtures for his club.

Injury Recovery and International Absence

The 33-year-old midfielder has been sidelined for City’s last four matches but is expected to return in mid-October. Initially, Belgium’s Nations League games against Italy and France were set to take place without him due to injury, but De Bruyne has also made the decision to miss Belgium’s November matches against Italy and Israel. Belgium manager Domenico Tedesco shared insights into De Bruyne’s choice, stating, “I had a long phone conversation with Kevin. He has asked to skip this camp and also November, to be able to take care of his body.”

The Toll of an Overloaded Schedule

De Bruyne’s decision highlights the increasing physical demands on top players. Tedesco further emphasised the burden on players like De Bruyne, noting, “The schedule has become even busier due to the World Cup for clubs. That is why he is not there now and in November. But when it really counts – the World Cup – he will be there.”

In support of his clubmate, Man City’s Rodri previously mentioned that players were nearing a breaking point with the relentless schedule. De Bruyne’s international future was briefly questioned after Belgium’s 2-0 loss to France in September, but Tedesco reassured fans, stating that De Bruyne remains dedicated to Belgium’s long-term goals, including the 2026 World Cup.