Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne faced criticism after referring to a journalist as "stupid" following a question about Belgium's "golden generation" in the aftermath of their elimination from Euro 2024.

Belgium's hopes were dashed by Jan Vertonghen's own goal in the 85th minute, leading to a 1-0 defeat against France in the round of 16 in Dusseldorf.

France, despite not scoring from open play so far, progressed from the group stage with the fewest goals scored in an opening round since the 2010 World Cup. Didier Deschamps' side had opportunities through Kylian Mbappe, settling for a late lead when Randal Kolo Muani's shot deflected off a Belgian defender.

Belgium failed to convert last-minute chances in a tight contest, while France looks forward to enhancing their attacking prowess against the winner of Portugal and Slovenia in Hamburg on Friday.

Post-match, De Bruyne faced questions about Belgium's "golden generation." Responding, he queried, "Do you think France, England, Spain, and Germany don't have a 'golden generation'?" His comments were accompanied by calling the journalist "stupid," visibly displaying disbelief.

The journalist in question, Tancredi Palmeri, retaliated on social media, labelling De Bruyne a "spoiled brat."

Palmeri tweeted: "Ahah De Bruyne just called me stupid. Hey Kevin, little memo for you: the golden generation you mentioned of France, England, Germany, and Spain ALL REACHED A FINAL! Typical footballer only wanting questions praising them. Spoiled brat."

When asked if this Euro could be his last international tournament for Belgium, De Bruyne stated, "It's too early to say. I need time to process this loss after a long season. I need to rest my body. I will decide after the summer."

Reflecting on the match, De Bruyne remarked, "It's disappointing. We had a plan and executed it well. Knowing France's quality, we expected them to dominate possession, but we defended solidly as a team and restricted clear chances, apart from a few long-range shots."

"We had our moments, though they were scarce. Our strategy was effective until their deflected goal. It's unfortunate, but we must accept it."