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Garcia discusses Lukaku's World Cup role and De Bruyne's happiness

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 4, 2026, 12:10 PM

Last updated Jun 4, 2026

Garcia discusses Lukaku's World Cup role and De Bruyne's happiness

Summary

Belgium national team coach Rudi Garcia stated Romelu Lukaku will not start at the World Cup. This decision comes as the team prepares for their group matches against Egypt, Iran, and New Zealand. Garcia acknowledged the importance of managing Lukaku's recovery from an injury that limited his playtime. He emphasized that Belgium is an outsider in the tournament. Kevin De Bruyne expressed satisfaction with his time in Naples despite past controversies. The focus remains on Belgium's advancement beyond the group stage.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•Garcia confirms Lukaku won't start against Egypt.
•Belgium competes in Group G with Egypt, Iran, and New Zealand.
•Lukaku's injury limited his playtime to 60 minutes this season.
•De Bruyne is enjoying his experience in Naples.
•Garcia aims for Belgium to progress beyond group stage.

Latest Updates

12:10 PMYahoo Sports — Garcia: Lukaku not a Belgium World Cup starter, De Bruyne ‘happy’ with two Napoli things

What they're saying

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Belgium national team coach Rudi Garcia admits Romelu Lukaku won’t be an immediate starter at the World Cup and insists Kevin De Bruyne is ‘happy’ with Napoli fans and the city: ‘Those are not...
— Yahoo Sports

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Napoli Champions League Soccer