In a surprising decision, Rodri Garcia, the head coach of the Belgium national team, announced the removal of the captain's armband from Napoli star Kevin De Bruyne and assigned it to Aston Villa midfielder Youri Tielemans, making him the new captain of the team.

Garcia clarified during a press conference held today, Thursday, that the decision was made unanimously by the coaching staff and players, noting that the 28-year-old Tielemans will lead the team starting from the match against Liechtenstein, and will retain the armband permanently.

The French coach stated: "Tielemans represents the perfect link between the golden generation and the young players, and he is the best choice to lead the group in the upcoming phase."

De Bruyne had taken over the captaincy in March 2023 after Eden Hazard's retirement, and he continues to represent the national team despite the removal of the armband, after recently joining Napoli on a free transfer following the end of his career with Manchester City.

On the other hand, Romelu Lukaku, De Bruyne's teammate at Napoli and the national team, continues his recovery from injury, which delays his appearance with the Belgian national team at this time.