Manchester City’s Kevin De Bruyne was critical of some of his Belgium teammates after their 2-0 defeat to France on Monday.
The 33-year-old publicly slammed the performance and criticised individuals, without naming them, for being poor against France.
Former KAA Gent goalkeeper Wim De Coninck believes he was pointing fingers at Aston Villa duo Youri Tielemans and Amadou Onana.
De Conincks’ views have been backed up by former Anderlecht and KRC Genk manager Johan Boskamp during a chat with Het Belang van Limburg.
Tielemans and Onana were behind the attacking midfielder. The Dutchman claims the two Aston Villa players are the main reason for De Bruyne’s public outburst.
“The guys behind him in midfield. Onana and Tielemans. After that strong opening quarter, they stuck at the back. There was no more connection from the midfield, which stretched the team and created spaces everywhere,” he said.
Boskamp is of the belief De Bruyne man made the controversial remarks “out of pure frustration” after losing the tie.
The Manchester City player was frustrated after De Rode Duivels’ latest defeat and appeared to say ‘I quit’ on the sidelines.
HBVL asked the 75-year-old whether he sees De Bruyne leaving the national team.
Responding to that, Boskamp explained: “If he really said those words, then I fear it. Kevin is not the man to make empty threats. It would of course be a shame. I hope he can put his disappointment aside and still continue with De Rode Duivels.”
The Dutchman believes it’s possible for the Manchester City man to retire from international football.
“I honestly wouldn’t be surprised. His character is too strong to resign himself to the current level of De Rode Duivels. At City, he plays in a team that is so much better. The contrast is just too great,” he added.
“I want him to continue. I wonder if any teammates will react to his words. There is now even more pressure on the next internationals. Also, on Kevin himself after this interview, he can’t afford a bad match anymore either.”
