After Belgium’s 2-0 loss to France in the Nations League clash, Kevin De Bruyne did not hold back in expressing his disappointment. The captain launched an angry tirade against his teammates, indicating that too many things had gone wrong during the game. De Bruyne made it clear that the team’s performance was below the standard they aim to achieve, emphasizing the need for improvement in every aspect.
De Bruyne did not shy away from comparing the current Belgian squad to the one that reached the World Cup semifinals in Russia in 2018. While he acknowledged that the team may not be as good as it was back then, he deemed certain aspects of the recent performances unacceptable. The frustration stemming from shortcomings was evident in his comments, highlighting a sense of urgency for the team to step up its game.
One of the key issues pointed out by De Bruyne was the defensive setup of the team. He mentioned that having too many players at the back affected the team’s connection and overall performance on the field. The Manchester City playmaker stressed the importance of players executing their tasks and responsibilities effectively, emphasizing the need for a more cohesive defensive strategy.
Coach Domenico Tedesco acknowledged De Bruyne’s emotional reaction, attributing it to the captain’s strong winning mentality. Tedesco recognized De Bruyne as a leader with high expectations for himself and his teammates, which occasionally leads to passionate responses following disappointing results. The coach’s understanding of De Bruyne’s frustration reflects a desire to address and rectify the team’s shortcomings moving forward.
Kevin De Bruyne’s outspoken criticism of his teammates after Belgium’s loss to France sheds light on the team’s need for improvement. The captain’s call for better performances and increased dedication underscores the importance of accountability and cohesion within the squad. As Belgium looks to bounce back from this defeat, De Bruyne’s words serve as a rallying cry for the team to elevate their game and strive for excellence in future matches.