We have to be realistic about the team we have, admits Kevin De Bruyne

Another opportunity to secure international glory was on the plate for Belgium in the UEFA Nations League finals but they ultimately crashed out with a 2-3 loss against France in the semi-finals of the tournament. Further disappointment ensued on Sunday as they lost to Italy 2-1 in the match for crowning 3rd place in the tournament. Belgium still remains the No 1 side in the world according to the official rankings but the Belgian claims that his nation cannot be expected to compete with the very best sides as they do not have the depth required for such a challenge.

"We did well at times against some top teams and had many new faces who did more than a decent job today. It’s good experience for them to be able to play against opponents of this calibre, but unfortunately we lost twice. With all due respect, playing against Estonia is not the same thing and these challenges are necessary for us to grow, both as individuals and as a team,” De Bruyne told HLN after the match against Italy.