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WILL KEVIN DE BRUYNE PLAY IN THE 2026 WORLD CUP?

Kevin De Bruyne, one of the most talented midfielders of the last decade, could have his last major tournament with the Belgian national team at the 2026 World Cup. At 34, the question of his participation remains, and all signs point to him being there if he stays healthy. In this article, we tell you everything: his statistics with the national team, what he has said in recent interviews, his current form at Manchester City, and what his presence represents in a possible Belgian generational change. Will it be his golden farewell, or has his World Cup cycle already come to an end?

Kevin De Bruyne's Physical Condition and Current Status


Kevin De Bruyne has been the creative engine of Manchester City for over a decade. However, in recent years, muscle injuries and physical discomfort have begun to affect his career. In the 2023-24 season, for example, he only played 18 Premier League matches due to a hamstring injury that sidelined him for almost five months.


Despite this, every time he returned he showcased his class: an average of 0.68 assists per game, 2.4 key passes per game, and an 89% pass completion rate in the opponent's half. Guardiola has been very clear in several interviews: “When Kevin is healthy, he is irreplaceable.”


His current role at City


Although he is no longer the same tireless box-to-box midfielder he was five years ago, his game reading and ability to thread passes remain world-class. He's being managed more carefully: fewer minutes, more rotation, and a more "brain" role, like what Modrić does at Real Madrid.


  • 18 Premier League games played 23/24

  • 8 assists and 3 goals

  • 89% pass accuracy

  • 2.4 key passes per game

  • Average of 75 minutes per appearance


With just over a year and a half until the World Cup, his fitness will be key. If he stays healthy, De Bruyne has everything he needs to make an impact in 2026.

What Kevin has said about his future


In recent interviews, Kevin De Bruyne has made it clear that his priority is to enjoy the time he has left at the top, without pressure. In a chat with HLN Belgium in May 2024, he said: “As long as I feel good, I’ll keep playing. Football still excites me like it did a kid.” Regarding the 2026 World Cup, he wasn't definitive, but he didn't rule it out either: “If they need me and I'm fit, I'll be there. But it's not an obsession. I've had some wonderful moments with Belgium, and if it's time to end this chapter, I'll do it peacefully.” What does the national team camp think? Domenico Tedesco, Belgium's current coach, has been very diplomatic. “Kevin is a role model. I don't care about age, I care about performance.” This leaves the door open for a call-up if his form allows it.


  • Open statements to follow

  • He has not announced his international retirement

  • The national team still values ​​him as a leader

  • Manager Tedesco has said he is counting on him

  • He has a contract with City until 2025


So, although there is no official confirmation, everything points to Kevin De Bruyne having a serious chance of playing in his fourth World Cup if his body holds up.


The world of football is buzzing with anticipation. The 2026 World Cup is fast approaching, and national teams are battling for their place in the biggest tournament, where every match defines the dreams and hopes of millions of fans.With three host countries—the United States, Mexico, and Canada—this edition promises to be historic: more teams, more goals, and a unique global experience. Coaches are fine-tuning their strategies, and players are vying for their ticket to the most anticipated tournament.The countdown has begun. The ball is about to start rolling, and the whole world awaits the moment a new chapter begins.The World Cup is almost here… and the passion is palpable.

The world of football is buzzing with anticipation. The 2026 World Cup is fast approaching, and national teams are battling for their place in the biggest tournament, where every match defines the dreams and hopes of millions of fans.With three host countries—the United States, Mexico, and Canada—this edition promises to be historic: more teams, more goals, and a unique global experience. Coaches are fine-tuning their strategies, and players are vying for their ticket to the most anticipated tournament.The countdown has begun. The ball is about to start rolling, and the whole world awaits the moment a new chapter begins.The World Cup is almost here… and the passion is palpable.

What his presence would mean for Belgium


Having Kevin De Bruyne at the 2026 World Cup would be a bombshell for Belgium, a team in the midst of a generational transition. With figures like Eden Hazard and Vincent Kompany already retired, De Bruyne's presence could serve as an anchor of experience for a young crop led by talents like Jeremy Doku, Charles De Ketelaere, and Amadou Onana.


Beyond football, Kevin represents quiet leadership, pure professionalism, and vision on the field. At the 2022 World Cup, Belgium disappointed, and many analysts pointed to a lack of cohesion and direction on the pitch. De Bruyne could be the glue needed to unite talent and strategy. Impact on and off the field. Furthermore, his mere presence commands respect from the opposition. Kevin can make the difference with just a few touches: a through ball, a pinpoint assist, or a shot from mid-range. He helps balance a young squad. His World Cup experience would be key. He can mentor new talent. He raises the competitive level of the group. He is Belgium's all-time top assist provider. In short, if Kevin is in good form, his participation wouldn't just be welcome: it could be decisive for a Belgium side dreaming of breaking the "almost" curse and finally reaching a World Cup final.

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