Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois announced on Wednesday that he has decided to step down from playing in Belgium's upcoming UEFA Nations League campaign.
The 34-year-old veteran, who has earned 115 international caps for the Belgian national team, confirmed that head coach Mark van Bommel has accepted his decision to sit out the international tournament.
Speaking to Belgian newspaper Het Laatste Nieuws, Courtois explained that he decided not to participate in the entire Nations League campaign with the Red Devils unless the national team manager faces injury problems among his goalkeepers. He noted that if an emergency injury situation arises, he could be called up on an exceptional basis.
Despite stepping aside from Nations League duty, Courtois emphasized that he remains fully available for Belgium's qualifying matches for Euro 2028. The European Championship qualification process represents his primary target for international competition moving forward.
Starting spot competition
Courtois revealed that while Van Bommel accepted his withdrawal, the head coach made it clear that he will not guarantee Courtois a starting place when the Real Madrid goalkeeper returns to the national squad.
Courtois acknowledged that if whichever goalkeeper steps in to play during the Nations League performs impressively, Van Bommel could choose to retain that player as his preferred starter. However, Courtois stressed that he intends to fight for his place in the side and prove that he is once again Belgium's number one goalkeeper.
At club level, Courtois continues to play as the primary goalkeeper for Spanish giants Real Madrid, where the squad is managed by Portuguese coach José Mourinho. Real Madrid, based in the Spanish capital, competes in Spain's top flight La Liga and European competitions.
The national team pause follows a period of recovery for Courtois, who previously underwent successful surgery after suffering a severe injury to his left knee. Courtois had extended his contract with Real Madrid through 2026, maintaining his role at the club during a period that also saw roster changes across Europe, including midfielder Mateo Kovacic's move to Chelsea.
Belgium will proceed with their Nations League schedule under Van Bommel as the coaching staff evaluates alternative starting options in goal, while Courtois focuses on his commitments with Real Madrid ahead of future Euro 2028 qualification matches.
