Kevin De Bruyne, Manchester City’s star player, has been making headlines as Belgium scraped their way into the Euro 2024 last-16.
Everywhere he turns, Kevin De Bruyne faces pressure. There’s the pressure to catch up after his five-month injury with Manchester City, the pressure to finally achieve something significant with Belgium, and the pressure to make decisions about his future.
For now, the focus is on Belgium’s shaky Euro 2024 journey. De Bruyne was subdued in the loss to Slovakia, brilliant against Romania, and frustrated during the match with Ukraine. These performances could bode well for City as they try to convince him to stay another year.
Belgium’s campaign in Germany has been underwhelming, yet De Bruyne has predictably stood out. However, he can’t do it alone. When Romelu Lukaku struggles with offsides and Jeremy Doku’s play is out of sync with the team, De Bruyne’s frustration is palpable.
City has seen De Bruyne’s anger before and often uses it to their advantage. Earlier this year, he felt unfairly criticized and typically responds by delivering top-quality performances when it matters most. Belgium will hope he brings this intensity against France in the last-16.
De Bruyne’s frustration also turned towards Belgium supporters on Wednesday. They criticized the team’s performance against Ukraine, booing them for settling for a draw instead of pushing for a win that would have topped their group. Now, their path to the final may include facing France, Portugal, and either Spain or Germany.
When Belgium fans booed at full time, De Bruyne led his teammates away, telling them not to acknowledge the stands. He defended the team’s decision to secure the draw and ensure a last-16 spot, rather than risk elimination with a dangerous cross. His diplomatic response to fan criticism masked his evident frustration.
After storming out of an interview following the loss to Slovakia, De Bruyne’s one-word Instagram post on Wednesday read “through.” This suggests a less-than-happy De Bruyne.
City is awaiting De Bruyne’s decision about his future. While happiness is not a necessity, they need him motivated, especially since he hinted at considering a lucrative move to Saudi Arabia.
City would love for De Bruyne to win the Euros, return with momentum, and tackle what might be his final season with them. If he remains driven, it could delay a move to Saudi Arabia, allowing him to win more titles with City.
Whatever happens, De Bruyne’s fiery determination is evident, and this can only benefit City as they aim to keep him for as long as possible.
