Berlin, 22 March 2023 (dpa/MIA) - Manchester City midfielder Kevin de Bruyne has been apppointed Belgium captain in succession of Eden Hazard who retired from the national team after last year's World Cup.

The national federation RBFA said on Tuesday that De Bruyne is set to make his debut as captain in Friday's Euro 2024 qualifier in Sweden.

Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois and Inter Milan striker Romelu Lukaku are the new vice-captains in the team of their new German coach Domenico Tedesco.

"It is a proud moment to be the leader of our country. I have played in the national team for a long time. It is a big honour for me and I hope I can fill the role well," the 97-time capped De Bruyne said.

Belgium, who also play a friendly in Germany next week Tuesday, are aiming to rebound from a group stage exit at last year's World Cup in Qatar.

Photo: EPA