Belgium name Premier League star as new captain after ex-Chelsea ace Eden Hazard’s international retirement
BELGIUM have named their next captain following the international retirement of Eden Hazard.
Chelsea legend Hazard, 32, stepped down from national team duty following Belgium‘s early exit from the World Cup.
Manchester City star Kevin De Bruyne will take the reins in Hazard’s stead.
Speaking to RTL-TVI television, De Bruyne said: “It’s an honour for me to be named and represent the country in this way.
“I’m almost 32. I’ve never considered international retirement. I think I can still bring something to the table and help the youngsters.”
De Bruyne has made 97 appearances for the Belgium national team.
He made his debut in 2011, and has gone on to score 25 goals while also adding a staggering 46 assists.
Belgium have also confirmed Thibaut Courtois and Romelu Lukaku will be the nation’s new vice-captains.
Domenico Tedesco, who succeeded Roberto Martinez as manager, will face Sweden and Germany in his first fixtures.
The Sweden clash will see the Red Devils also kickstart their Euro 2024 qualifying campaign.
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Speaking in a video released on the Belgium National Team’s Twitter page, De Bruyne said: “It’s a proud moment to be captain of the national team.
“I have been represeneting Belgium as a footballer for quite a long time.
“To represent it in this way is an honour. I hope I can fulfil that role well.”