Belgium has produced some of the most remarkable talents in modern soccer. This article highlights ten of Belgium’s finest players who have left their mark on both national and international leagues. From Kévin De Bruyne to Eric Gerets, let’s discover their exceptional careers, the prestigious clubs for which they shone, and the trophies they won during their respective careers.
1. Kévin De Bruyne
Renowned for his ability to orchestrate play from midfield, Kévin De Bruyne currently plays for Manchester City, where he wears the number 17 shirt. His technical mastery and vision of the game are second to none, making a significant contribution to his team, which has won the Premier League on several occasions and the prestigious Champions League. These achievements underline his indispensable role within the club.
De Bruyne has also been honored several times for his performances, including PFA Player of the Year. With over 25 trophies to his name, including successes for club and country, he continues to make his mark on the soccer world with his exceptional talent.
2. Thibaut Courtois
As a goalkeeper, Thibaut Courtois is a key figure for Real Madrid, wearing the number 1 jersey. With the club, he won the prestigious Champions League, confirming his status as one of the world’s finest goalkeepers. His exceptional talent has also been recognized at the international level with Belgium, with whom he reached the semi-finals of the 2018 World Cup.
Courtois has also won several individual awards, including FIFA’s Best Goalkeeper, and has accumulated over 15 trophies in his career. His ability to make decisive saves continues to set him apart on the international stage.
3. Eden Hazard
Once considered one of Europe’s most fearsome strikers, Eden Hazard shone with the number 10 shirt at Chelsea, where he won several Premier League titles. His agility and ability to outwit opposing defenses were crucial to his club and the Belgian national team. Although his recent seasons at Real Madrid have been hampered by injury, there’s no doubting his talent.
Hazard has also received numerous individual awards, including Premier League Player of the Year. With over 15 trophies to his name, he remains an icon of Belgian and world soccer.
4. Jan Ceulemans
Having worn the number 9 shirt, Jan Ceulemans is a legend of Belgian soccer, renowned for his robustness and technique. His career is best remembered for Club Brugge, where he spent the majority of his professional career, winning several Belgian league titles. On the international scene, Ceulemans was a mainstay of the national team, taking part in three World Cups.
That said, his reputation as a leader and his ability to inspire his teammates have been widely recognized, earning him a special place in the hearts of fans. Although he may not have accumulated an impressive number of trophies, his impact on Belgian soccer remains undeniable.
5. Vincent Kompany
A renowned central defender, Vincent Kompany was for many years the defensive rock of Manchester City, where he wore the number 4 shirt. Under his colors, he won four Premier League titles and various domestic cups, playing a key role in the club’s transformation into a world power. His imposing presence and leadership were also vital to the Belgian national team.
What’s more, Kompany has been repeatedly rewarded for his outstanding performances, both collectively and individually, accumulating over 20 trophies in the course of his career. His recent transition to coaching demonstrates his ongoing commitment to the game.
6. Romelu Lukaku
Currently, a striker for Napoli, Romelu Lukaku, who wears the number 9 shirt, has returned to the English club after a spell with AS Roma. Known for his physical strength and fearsome efficiency in front of goal, Lukaku has proved his worth in many of Europe’s top leagues. His return to Chelsea is a testament to his ability to adapt and excel at any level of competition.
What’s more, Lukaku is the all-time top scorer for the Belgian national team, a feat that underlines his impact and importance on the international stage. With an already impressive list of honors, including a Serie A title with Inter Milan and several national trophies, he continues to establish himself as one of the most dominant strikers of his generation.
7. Marc Wilmots
A former combative midfielder, Marc Wilmots wore the number 7 shirt during his international career with Belgium, where he became an iconic figure. Although he spent much of his club career in Germany, he is best known for his role as captain and later coach of the Belgian national team. He led Belgium to outstanding performances in various international tournaments.
Wilmots has also been honored on several occasions for his leadership and impact both on and off the pitch, making him a respected figure in Belgian soccer.
8. Jan Vertonghen
Jan Vertonghen, wearing number 5, played with some of Europe’s biggest clubs, including Ajax Amsterdam, Tottenham Hotspur, and SL Benfica, before joining RSC Anderlecht for the 2022/2023 season. His career illustrates his adaptability and defensive excellence, qualities that have established him as a leading central defender on the international scene. His participation in the Champions League final with Tottenham in 2019 remains a highlight of his club career.
In addition, Vertonghen has been a mainstay of the Belgian national team, playing a crucial role in their impressive 2018 World Cup campaign. With his ability to read the game and organize the defense, he has amassed several awards and trophies, affirming his position as one of the most respected and reliable defenders of his generation.
9. Toby Alderweireld
Toby Alderweireld, known for his defensive solidity, wore number 2 at Tottenham Hotspur and currently plays for Al-Duhail in Qatar. His ability to make precise tackles and play safe passes has earned him a reputation as a world-class defender. At club level, he helped lead Tottenham to a Champions League final and has won several domestic trophies during his career.
What’s more, Alderweireld was a key member of the Belgian national team, taking part in several major international tournaments. His reassuring presence in defense has often been crucial in key moments, both for his club and his country.
10. Eric Gerets
Eric Gerets, nicknamed “The Lion of Rekem”, made his mark with his number 2 shirt during his years at AC Milan and Olympique de Marseille. Known for his unwavering commitment and leadership on the pitch, he won several league titles in Belgium, Italy, and France. After his playing career, Gerets established himself as a respected coach, leading teams in various European leagues.
Gerets also played a vital role for the Belgian national team in many European and world competitions, contributing his experience and tenacity. His contribution to soccer, both on and off the pitch, continues to be celebrated throughout the game.
