De Bruyne faces disciplinary scrutiny after reported referee confrontation

Kevin De Bruyne is at the centre of controversy after reportedly swearing at and pushing the referee during Belgium’s 1-0 defeat by France in the UEFA Nations League.

The incident occurred in the closing stages of the match in Brussels, after the Belgium captain became angry over the application of a new rule governing when players can return to the pitch following treatment.

Under the rule, a player who leaves the field for medical attention must wait one minute before being allowed back into play. De Bruyne is reported to have objected to being kept off the pitch for that period.

French website Foot Mercato said the Belgium midfielder did not accept the referee’s decision to enforce the rule. According to Belgian newspaper Het Laatste Nieuws, De Bruyne used offensive language towards the official and then pushed him.

The alleged confrontation could lead to further debate about De Bruyne’s conduct during the match, although the source article does not state whether any disciplinary action has been taken.

The incident came during a frustrating night for Belgium, who were unable to respond after France scored late in the game. Michael Olise’s decisive goal secured a narrow victory for the visitors and gave France top spot in Group A of League A in the second round of the competition.

Belgium’s defeat was particularly painful in front of their home supporters, with the hosts unable to find an equaliser after Olise’s late strike.

France, meanwhile, maintained their strong start under manager Zinedine Zidane, taking maximum advantage of the final stages to claim victory in Brussels.