Belgium national team coach Marc Wilmots has insisted that Kevin De Bruyne’s transfer fee will not change his status in his team, while pointing out the player deserves a switch to Manchester City.
After weeks of speculation, the Belgian playmaker is expected to be on his way to Manchester City from Wolfsburg and the final deal could take the transfer fee to up to between €76m and €78m.
De Bruyne’s performances last season for Wolfsburg catapulted him to his current star status and he is one of the most sought after young playmakers in the world.
While Wilmots admits that De Bruyne has earned his big move to Manchester City through the sheer weight of his performances, the Belgian national team coach insisted that his price tag won’t affect his standing in the Belgium team.
Speaking to Belgian daily Het Laatste Nieuws, the Belgium head coach said: “De Bruyne is getting what he deserves after an excellent season.
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“But the hefty transfer fee won’t change his position in the team.”
De Bruyne has not been in sparkling form for Wolfsburg early in the season and Wilmots feels the uncertainty surrounding his future has affected his form.
“He always works for the team and I hope he continues to do so. Yes, his first two games at Wolfsburg were not good but the hassles have affected his mental state.”
De Bruyne remains a critical member of the Belgium squad and at 24, he has already earned 33 international caps.
