Kevin De Bruyne shuts down ‘stupid’ journalist after being quizzed about failures of Belgium’s golden generation

Kevin De Bruyne pointed out that the other nations playing in the Euros have equally talented squads, apart from Belgium.

Kevin De Bruyne shuts down ‘stupid’ journalist after being quizzed about failures of Belgium’s golden generation

Kevin De Bruyne was questioned about the failure of Belgium's golden generation. (via IMAGO)

Belgian skipper Kevin De Bruyne was left frustrated at a question about Belgium’s ‘golden generation’ after their Round of 16 loss to France at the Euros. The midfielder, upon being inquired about it slammed the criticism as ‘stupid’.

The 33-year-old was reacting to the suggestion that the ‘golden generation’ of Belgium players might have long lost their days. The previous decade was identified by Belgian fans as an age of ‘generational talent’. With names such as De Bruyne, Eden Hazard, and Vincent Kompany, they achieved a World Cup semi-final in 2018. This has however been followed by a string of setbacks. A Euro 2020 quarter-final exit and a shocking group-stage elimination at the 2022 World Cup are a few.

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Speaking to reporters following another European exit against France, the Manchester City star acknowledged that the team’s highly skilled squad might not have lived up to expectations in the past decade. However, he countered the notion of Belgium being the only team with a “golden generation.” He pointed out that countries like France, England, Spain, and Germany also boast incredibly talented players, making the Euros fairly competitive.

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What is a 'golden generation'? You say that France, England and Spain and Germany are not a golden generation. OK. Thank you. Stupid.
Kevin De Bruyne on Belgium’s ‘golden generation’ (via Diario AS)

Being one of the most unlucky teams at the international stage, the Red Devils are yet to win any major international tournament in their 120-year football history. Moreover, they were knocked out of the Euros 2024, owing to an own-goal by defender Jan Vertonghen.

Kevin De Bruyne yet to make a decision on his national team future

Kevin De Bruyne, speaking after Belgium’s 1-0 loss to France at Euro 2024, addressed speculation about his future with the national team and indicated that he was bidding farewell to the European Championships.

Kevin De Bruyne retirement
Kevin De Bruyne discussed international retirement plans. (via IMAGO)

When asked about his international future, De Bruyne remained non-committal. He requested time to reflect on the recent loss, citing a long season and the need for rest. Additionally, he indicated that a decision on continuing with Belgium would be made sometime after the summer. 

It's too early to answer. Let me process this loss. It's been a very long season. I need to rest my body. I will make my decision after the summer.
Kevin De Bruyne on international retirement (via Sky Sports)

Moreover, coach Domenico Tedesco has clearly highlighted the midfielder’s role at the upcoming FIFA World Cup. Apart from his international future, there have also been rumors about a potential departure from Manchester City, amid Saudi links.

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