Thibaut Courtois steps away from Belgium Nations League campaign but eyes Euro 2028 qualifiers

Nations League break and physical recovery

Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois will skip Belgium's upcoming Nations League campaign to manage his physical condition, clarifying that he has not retired from international football. The 34-year-old goalkeeper confirmed his decision in the mixed zone at the Santiago Bernabéu on Tuesday night following Real Madrid's 2-1 victory over Inter Milan in the Champions League group stage. Courtois had previously indicated immediately after the World Cup that taking a sabbatical from the competition would offer necessary rest. Belgium is grouped with France, Italy, and Turkey, with six fixtures scheduled over the next three months. Courtois stated that he will miss all group fixtures and any subsequent Final Four, remaining available only if a severe injury crisis leaves the team without alternatives.

I have made the choice not to play the entire Nations League campaign with the Red Devils. Unless the coach is faced with injury problems, in which case I could exceptionally be called up. This also means that I will not play in a potential Final Four.

Agreement with coach Mark van Bommel

The decision followed a direct meeting in the Spanish capital between Courtois and new Belgium head coach Mark van Bommel. After his appointment, Van Bommel pledged to travel to Madrid to discuss the goalkeeper's schedule and the heavy demands of the international calendar. During their conversation, Van Bommel accepted Courtois's request to step aside for the autumn tournament. However, the Dutch manager made clear that sitting out would cost Courtois any guarantee of resuming his starting role upon his return. Courtois dismissed suggestions that his appearance against Spain at the World Cup would remain his final match for Belgium.

Physically, I do not know if I can maintain the same schedule for another four years.

Succession plan and return for Euro qualifiers

Courtois will not be included in Van Bommel's initial squad selection for Belgium's upcoming fixtures against Italy on 25 September and France on 28 September. In his absence, Manchester United goalkeeper Senne Lammens and Chelsea goalkeeper Mike Penders serve as the primary candidates to take over the starting position. Both goalkeepers were part of Belgium's squad at the World Cup and will now contest the first-choice spot throughout the autumn group stage. Courtois plans to make himself available for selection when the qualifying campaign for the 2028 European Championship begins in March next year, accepting that his return will require him to earn back the starting jersey.

I will make myself available again for the Euro qualifiers. Van Bommel agrees, but he replied that he cannot guarantee me a starting spot. If the goalkeeper who plays in the Nations League gives satisfaction, Van Bommel could continue with him. I nevertheless want to fight for my place. I want to prove that I am again the number one goalkeeper.