7M - Thibaut Courtois Ponders Break From International Football

Thibaut Courtois has expressed uncertainty regarding his continuation with the Belgium national team following their quarterfinal elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup. After Belgium suffered a two to one defeat against Spain, the Real Madrid goalkeeper revealed his desire to step back from international duty in the short term.

Courtois stated that he would prefer to skip the upcoming UEFA Nations League campaign, a tournament he views as less significant, with the intention of returning for the UEFA Euro 2028 qualifiers. However, he emphasized that this plan is contingent upon reaching a mutual agreement with the Belgian soccer federation.

The veteran goalkeeper noted that if the federation does not accept his proposed break, the quarterfinal loss to Spain might stand as his final appearance for the national team. Courtois has served as a cornerstone of Belgium's golden generation for over ten years, making this the first time he has publicly considered an international retirement.