Euro 2020: De Bruyne, Witsel To Miss Belgium Opener Against Russia

PFA holder Kevin de Bruyne will miss Belgium's first European Championship match against Russia on Saturday, the Belgian team confirmed on Friday.

De Bruyne fractured his eye socket and nose in the Champions League final and had minor surgery last week, only joining up with his Belgian teammates on Monday.

Midfielder Axel Witsel is also recovering from an Achilles tendon injury.

"Axel Witsel and Kevin De Bruyne did not travel to Russia. They stayed in (the Belgian training camp) Tubize to continue their recovery," the Belgian Red Devils Twitter account said.

Earlier, Belgium coach, Roberto Martinez was unsure of the Manchester City playmaker participation but it is confirmed now that he would miss the opener and could return in subsequent games.

His role could be filled with Yannick Carrasco (Atletico Madrid), Thorgan Hazard (Borussia Dortmund), and Dennis Praet (Leicester City) -- undoubtedly not De Bruyne's equal but would put on a fine performance for their country.