Thibaut Courtois has ruled himself out of Belgium’s squad for the UEFA Nations League opener versus Italy, declaring a full withdrawal from the tournament.
After Real Madrid’s 2-1 Champions League triumph over Inter Milan, Courtois confirmed in the mixed zone that he won’t play, even should Belgium make the Final Four, unless the coach runs out of goalkeeping choices.
No, I’m not going to play any Nations League matches, not even the Final Four, unless the coach needs me because there are too many injuries, he explained. He stressed the choice is personal, not a retirement, as he aims to curb his workload after a grueling club spell.
His existing deal with Real Madrid expires in June 2027, and talks are under way to add another year— a focus that now eclipses his national team duties.
Thibaut Courtois in the 2026 World Cup match against Spain. (Getty Images)
His final cap arrived in the 2026 World Cup quarter‑final versus Spain, where an injury saw him leave the field as Belgium exited.
How to catch Italy vs Belgium in the USA: 2026/27 UEFA Nations League live stream, TV schedule and preview.
Courtois targets a comeback for Euro 2028. Will he reclaim the No. 1 jersey in time for Euro 2028?
Courtois says he may return for Belgium’s Euro 2028 qualifiers starting March 2027. New boss Mark van Bommel accepted the break but warned it doesn’t guarantee a starting spot, as Senne Lammens eyes a long‑term role. “Van Bommel replied that he couldn’t guarantee me the starting spot. However, I want to fight for my place,” Courtois asserted. For my money, his club focus makes sense.
The battle for the No. 1 shirt will heat up during Courtois’s absence, with Lammens slated for an extended run of Nations League starts to cement his claim.
Euro 2028, jointly hosted by the United Kingdom and Ireland, offers a concrete goal for Courtois, yet he admits regaining the number‑one spot means defeating Lammens in competition, not just resuming his old duties.