Kevin De Bruyne Named in Belgium’s 26-Man World Cup Squad

Kevin de Bruyne is in Belgium’s 26-man World Cup squad. The midfielder was included as Belgium finalized its group for the tournament in the United States and Canada, with Group G matches against Egypt, Iran and New Zealand ahead.

Belgium Keeps De Bruyne

Belgium listed De Bruyne among its midfielders, keeping one of its most established players in place for the World Cup run. Thibaut Courtois and Axel Witsel are also in line to play in a fourth successive World Cup.

The squad gives Belgium a clear core for a tournament that now has 26 players locked in. For de Bruyne, the selection means his place is settled before the team moves into the group stage.

Lukaku’s Fitness Test

Romelu Lukaku is still part of the squad, but Rudi Garcia said the striker is not in full condition. “Romelu has recovered, but he's out of shape, and I'm not sure he'll be able to start the matches. But he's our best striker, Belgium's all-time leading scorer,” Garcia said.

He added: “We have five weeks to get him back to full fitness so that little by little he can help the team.” Lukaku has not played since 6 March, has made seven substitute appearances totaling 69 minutes in 2025-26, turned 33 on Wednesday and has scored one goal this season.

Belgium’s Forward Line

Lukaku still carries major numbers for Belgium: 89 goals in 124 caps, with his most recent international appearance coming against Wales last June. Belgium also included Matias Fernandez-Pardo as cover after he pledged his international allegiance to Belgium this week, and Zeno Debast was selected despite an injury in training.

The squad now heads toward Group G with a veteran core and one unresolved fitness issue at striker. De Bruyne’s selection is the cleaner part of the picture; Lukaku’s condition is the one Belgium will keep working through before the tournament begins.