World Cup 2026: Kevin De Bruyne relishing reunion with Egyptian star Mohamed Salah

Belgium midfielder Kevin De Bruyne has admitted he is looking forward to facing Egyptian star Mohamed Salah once again as the two nations prepare to begin their World Cup campaigns in Seattle.

The Group G encounter, scheduled for Monday, marks Egypt’s return to the global stage for its fourth World Cup appearance and brings together two of the most recognisable figures in world football.

Before kick-off, De Bruyne reflected on the prospect of meeting Salah again, recalling the many battles they shared during their years in the Premier League.

The Belgian playmaker spent much of that period representing Manchester City, while Salah established himself as one of Liverpool’s most influential players.

Speaking ahead of the match, De Bruyne described the reunion as an opportunity to face the Egyptian international once more “like in the good old days.”

Their rivalry has often been one of the defining storylines in English football over recent seasons, with both players playing key roles for clubs competing for major honours. This time, however, the contest will unfold on a different stage.

As reported by Beinsports, the significance of the meeting lies in the fact that the two players will now represent their countries rather than their clubs.

A rivalry forged in domestic football will be renewed at the World Cup, adding extra intrigue to an already highly anticipated fixture.

For Egypt, the match offers an opportunity to make an immediate statement in the tournament. The Pharaohs enter the competition under the guidance of coach Hossam Hassan and will look to their captain and leading star Salah to inspire a strong start.

Belgium, meanwhile, arrive as one of the highest-ranked teams in the competition. Currently ninth in the FIFA rankings, the Red Devils are widely viewed as favourites for the opening encounter.

The European side will be led by captain Youri Tielemans, while De Bruyne is expected to play a central role as Belgium seek to begin their campaign with three points.

Despite the focus on the two teams, much of the attention surrounding the fixture has centred on the anticipated battle between De Bruyne and Salah.

Both players have built reputations as elite performers at the highest level, and their presence adds another layer of excitement to the match.

With Egypt aiming to make an impact and Belgium hoping to justify their status as favourites, the meeting in Seattle promises to provide one of the standout contests of the opening round.

When the teams take to the field on Monday evening, the spotlight will inevitably fall on two familiar rivals whose careers have been intertwined through years of competition at the highest level of the game.