Shock Decision! Courtois Reveals Why He Is Taking A Break From Belgium Duty

Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has decided to temporarily put his Belgium international career on hold until September 2027.

The 34-year-old shot-stopper, who has made 115 appearances for the Belgian national team, will miss the upcoming UEFA Nations League campaign under newly appointed head coach Mark Van Bommel.

Courtois last represented Belgium at this year’s World Cup but has opted out of the Nations League, which begins with Belgium’s clash against Italy on September 25.

The decision followed discussions with Van Bommel, who reportedly told the Real Madrid goalkeeper that he could not guarantee him the starting position when the Nations League campaign begins.

Explaining his decision, Courtois said he had chosen not to participate in the entire Nations League campaign but left the door open for an emergency return should the national team encounter serious injury problems in goal.

Despite stepping away temporarily, Courtois stressed that he has not retired from international football and intends to make himself available again when Belgium begin their preparations for the Euro 2028 qualifiers next year.

The goalkeeper also acknowledged that his absence could give other Belgian goalkeepers an opportunity to establish themselves as the team’s first choice.

Among the options available to Van Bommel are Manchester United goalkeeper Senne Lammens and Chelsea youngster Mike Penders.

Courtois admitted that if another goalkeeper performs strongly during the Nations League, Van Bommel could decide to retain him as the preferred option.

However, the Real Madrid star made it clear that he intends to compete for his place when he returns, insisting that he wants to prove he can once again become Belgium’s first-choice goalkeeper.

According to Bush Radio Academy, Courtois’ decision represents a temporary break rather than an international retirement, with the veteran goalkeeper still targeting a return to the Belgian squad for the Euro 2028 qualifying campaign.