Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has decided to put his Belgium international career on hold until September 2027.
The 34-year-old goalkeeper has made 115 appearances for Belgium. He last played for the national team at this summer’s World Cup.
Courtois will miss the upcoming Nations League campaign under new Belgium coach Mark Van Bommel.
Courtois to miss Nations League matches
Belgium will begin its Nations League campaign against Italy on September 25.
Before making his decision, Van Bommel told Courtois that he could not guarantee him the starting goalkeeper position.
Courtois said he therefore chose not to take part in the entire Nations League campaign.
“I have made the choice not to play the entire Nations League campaign with the Red Devils,” Courtois told Belgian newspaper Het Laatste Nieuws.
However, the Real Madrid goalkeeper said he could return if the national team faces an injury crisis.
“Unless the national coach runs into injury problems; then I can be called up exceptionally,” he said.
Courtois wants to regain No. 1 spot
Meanwhile, Van Bommel has several options to replace Courtois in goal.
Manchester United goalkeeper Senne Lammens, 24, and Chelsea goalkeeper Mike Penders, 21, are among the players who could get an opportunity.
Courtois plans to return for Belgium’s Euro 2028 qualifying campaign.
“I am making myself available again for the European Championship qualifiers,” he said.
Goalkeeper battle ahead
Courtois acknowledged that another goalkeeper could establish himself during the Nations League campaign.
“If the goalkeeper playing in the Nations League performs well, Van Bommel might continue with him,” he said.
However, Courtois remains determined to compete for his place in the team.
“I want to fight for my place. I want to prove that I can be the first-choice keeper again,” he added.
Courtois will therefore spend the Nations League period away from the Belgium squad before aiming to return for the Euro 2028 qualifiers.
