De Bruyne praises new Belgium coach Van Bommel

Kevin De Bruyne has praised Belgium’s new coach, Mark van Bommel.

He says Van Bommel is direct and clear about how he wants the team to play.

Van Bommel took over from Rudi Garcia after the World Cup. He has named his first squad for four Nations League matches.

Belgium face Italy on September 25. They will also play France twice and Türkiye.

De Bruyne spoke about Van Bommel at a press conference on Tuesday. He said he did not know the coach well before they met.

Van Bommel previously managed Royal Antwerp. De Bruyne said he does not follow the Belgian league closely.

“He seems to me the typical Dutchman,” De Bruyne said. He added that Van Bommel is “clear and direct” with players.

“After one training session, I already know how he wants to play,” he said.

De Bruyne, 35, has played 124 times for Belgium. He said he feels ready to keep representing his country.

“I feel good physically and mentally. I am here to play,” he said.

Van Bommel’s first squad has 28 players. It includes much of Belgium’s World Cup group, along with eight players who did not take part in the tournament.

Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois asked to miss the Nations League matches so he can manage his playing time. Jérémy Doku and Amadou Onana are out with injuries.

Alexis Saelemaekers and Thomas Meunier were left out. Axel Witsel has retired from international football.

The squad also includes several players who could earn their first senior caps. Goalkeepers Jari De Busser, Mike Penders and Maarten Vandevoordt are uncapped.

Defender Kyriani Sabbe, 21, could also make his Belgium debut.

De Bruyne is one of the experienced players Van Bommel can rely on. The busy schedule will give the new coach an early test.

Belgium’s match against Italy will be Van Bommel’s first competitive game in charge. It will also give fans an early chance to see how his ideas work on the pitch.