Courtois rethinks quitting Belgium but wants time off

Thibaut Courtois, Belgium's veteran goalkeeper, has indicated a willingness to continue his international career, provided he is granted a period of rest over the coming months. Courtois, who has earned 115 caps since his 2011 debut, had previously considered retiring from the national team following Belgium's World Cup quarter-final defeat.

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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. That way, Senne (Lammens), Mike (Penders) or Maarten (Vandevoordt) could play.

The 34-year-old goalkeeper was controversially substituted during the match against Spain. He explained that he felt a twinge in his leg after taking two goal kicks, informing the coach that he could no longer execute long kicks. The coach, Rudi Garcia, decided to substitute him, a decision Courtois stated he understood, emphasizing that the team's needs come first.

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If they (Belgium) accept that, then I’d be open to continuing.

Courtois expressed sympathy for his replacement, Senne Lammens, who conceded possession leading to Spain's late winning goal. He described the moment as unfortunate but stressed that Lammens is an excellent goalkeeper with a bright future. Courtois believes such experiences, though difficult, ultimately make a player stronger.

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It’s a shame to come off in such a special match. I felt really good in the second half and made a few saves. You want to stay on the pitch in moments like that.

Courtois proposed a reduced schedule, suggesting he could focus on recovery in Madrid during the Nations League campaign, allowing younger goalkeepers like Senne Lammens, Mike Penders, or Maarten Vandevoordt to gain valuable playing time. If this arrangement is accepted by the Belgian football association, Courtois stated he would be open to continuing his service to the national team. Belgium is scheduled to begin their Nations League campaign against Italy on September 25.

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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.