Kevin De Bruyne would understandably have been disappointed after Belgium drew 0-0 against Ukraine on Wednesday.
Domenico Tedesco’s men had a chance to top the group but they came second to Romania despite having the same goal difference (plus one) — due to them having scored more goals (Romania, three, goals, Belgium, two goals).
After the clash, De Bruyne took to Instagram to caption his post-match post as “Through!!” but the Round of 16 presents a virtually impossible task of his Belgium side beating France. While Didier Deschamps’ side have underwhelmed so far, it is in the knockout rounds were they have come to life in previous tournaments.
Kevin De Bruyne discusses Oleksandr Zinchenko after Belgium draw to Ukraine
De Bruyne would have been hoping ahead of Wednesday’s encounter that his side got the all-important three points to avoid facing the French so early into the competition.
Manchester City’s number 17 was awarded the Player of the Match in back-to-back games — signifying that once again, while he stepped up to the plate, several of his teammates did not on the day.
After Belgium shared the spoils with Ukraine, De Bruyne was asked about his former Manchester City teammate Oleksandr Zinchenko, who he was speaking to in the aftermath of the game.
The 32-year-old said via HaytersTV: “I love Zinna [Oleksandr Zinchenko]. Zinna is [an] unbelievable guy. I played with him for five years and he’s done an incredible job for us at City and then he went to Arsenal and he’s doing really good.”
“I think he’s one of the leaders of Ukraine, he’s a close friend and I wish him all the best.”
No love lost between Kevin De Bruyne and Oleksandr Zinchenko
When Manchester United and Arsenal were competing for the Premier League crown, there was a hostile rivalry between both clubs.
In that era, players from both teams perhaps would not have spoken highly of their rivals’ stars in any capacity.
But football has changed in this regard and despite Manchester City and Arsenal competing for titles, their animosity would be considered a mere sporting rivalry that only exists on the pitch.
As a result, De Bruyne seems to admire Zinchenko, both as a player and a character — having spent several years with him at the Etihad Stadium and won numerous trophies.
It is heartwarming to witness that there is no love lost between the pair — with the midfield maestro discussing the versatile defender in glowing terms.
When Manchester City and Arsenal face each other, there could be a bit of tension between De Bruyne and Zinchenko.
However, if that occurred, that would be solely down to the competitive nature of the contest as well as the pair as top professionals.
But judging by De Bruyne’s words, it is clear to see that he still holds Zinchenko in high esteem.
