Thibaut Courtois opens door to Belgium stay but wants Nations League break

The 34-year-old goalkeeper admitted during the 2026 FIFA World Cup that he was considering retiring from international football after Belgium's quarter-final defeat to Spain. However, he has now softened his stance and said he would be willing to carry on if the Belgian Football Association agrees to manage his workload.

"I've already indicated that I'd like a quieter year, where I can stay in Madrid during the Nations League campaign to focus on my recovery," Courtois said.

"That way, Senne Lammens, Mike Penders or Maarten Vandevoordt could play. If they accept that, then I'd be open to continuing."

Courtois, who has made 115 appearances for Belgium since making his debut in 2011, was forced off late in the defeat to Spain after suffering discomfort in his leg.

The Real Madrid goalkeeper had been in excellent form before being substituted, but a quadriceps problem meant he could no longer take goal kicks. Belgium coach Rudi Garcia decided not to take any risks.

"It's a shame to come off in such a special match," Courtois said.

"I felt really good in the second half and made a few saves. You want to stay on the pitch in moments like that.

"But I took two goal kicks, and on the second one, I felt pain in my quadriceps. I let them know I couldn't take long goal kicks anymore.

"I could have stayed in goal, but the coach said, 'If you aren't 100 per cent, I'm substituting you.' That's why I initially wanted to keep playing, but the coach decided to substitute me. That's not a problem. The team comes first, of course."

Courtois was replaced by 24-year-old Senne Lammens, who was unable to hold onto a late shot, allowing Spain to score the winning goal in the 88th minute.

Despite the costly mistake, Courtois quickly defended his teammate and urged critics not to blame the young goalkeeper.

"It's a shame, of course, that Senne couldn't hold onto the ball. But that's football," he said.

"I went over to give him a hug. There isn't much you can say in a moment like that.

"It's just unfortunate, but Senne is an excellent goalkeeper. He has a bright future ahead of him, and moments like this make you stronger. He shouldn't be blamed for it. It's part of the game."

Belgium's Nations League campaign begins away to Italy in Rome on September 25.

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