Roberto Martinez’s Belgium is just a few steps away from securing their first international trophy. The Red Devils’ progress to the quarter-final is down to some special individuals, two of whom Martinez is tipping to win the Ballon d’Or.
In an interview with Goal, Martinez picked Romelu Lukaku and Kevin De Bruyne as his favorites for the Ballon d’Or. Both players came into the Euro on the back of title-winning campaigns, where they played a crucial role for their respective teams.
“I would split €50 for Romelu Lukaku and €50 for Kevin De Bruyne,”
“I think both, in their roles, they’ve been the best in world football. So I hope that they can get the rewards that they deserve.”
the Spaniard.
Martinez also provided team news for Belgium ahead of their huge quarter-final clash against Italy. The Red Devils suffered a double injury blow during the Round-of-16, and both De Bruyne and Eden Hazard were subbed out as a precautionary measure. However, the news from the Belgium camp is positive, the coach reiterates.
“Obviously we play on Friday, and that could be very close for both players to be available, but medically they can stay in the group and they can carry on working,”
“In the case of Kevin, I must admit, Kevin was very, very lucky in that challenge. It could have been a lot worse.”
said Martinez regarding the injuries.
De Bruyne missed Belgium’s opening match of the tournament against Russia and was only introduced in the second half against Denmark with the Red Devils behind. However, the Manchester City playmaker had an immediate impact and provided a goal and an assist in the turnaround win over the Danes.
Lukaku, on the other hand, has started all of Belgium’s games in the tournament. The Inter Milan striker scored twice against Russia and then another against Finland in their final group game. He is currently two goals behind top scorer Cristiano Ronaldo, albeit the latter will take no further part in the competition.
