Napoli star Kevin De Bruyne has made it clear that despite his advancing age and the physical demands of modern football, his motivation to represent the Belgian national team remains as strong as ever. As one of the defining playmakers of his generation, the midfielder continues to shoulder a vital leadership role for the Red Devils.
While many players of his vintage begin scaling back their international commitments to prolong their club careers, De Bruyne insists that his passion for pulling on the national jersey has not diminished. Speaking on his future with the national team, the talismanic creator emphasized that his hunger to compete and guide younger teammates is what keeps him driving forward. “No, that was never an issue for me,” he said.
“The coach did ask me what I wanted to do. My feeling after the World Cup was that I had enjoyed myself. A lot of players also asked me to stay. “I also felt physically good and still wanted to play. That’s the most important motivation. As long as I still have that motivation, why wouldn’t I continue?
“There will come a day when I say that I don’t need to do it anymore, but that’s not something that is on my mind at the moment. “I do think these will be my final two years,” but then, hesitating, added: “Never say never. At the moment I feel good, so we’ll see.”