Thibaut Courtois is fed up with international football

Courteous and lucid. Present at a press conference before challenging Egypt this Monday (9 p.m.) at the opening of its World Cup, Thibaut Courtois looked back on his future within the Belgian selection. And the least we can say is that the goalkeeper is a little fed up: « I noticed that during these international breaks, we could recover and work peacefully in the gym. In addition, over the last 18 months, I have experienced more small physical problems and injuries, so we naturally think more about the future. I’m considering passing on the baton. There is a lot of talent coming in with Senne Lammens and Mike Penders. »

The “ last 18 months » that Courtois speaks of correspond to his period of absence from the national team, following a falling out with the former coach, Domenico Tedesco. Visibly worn, the 34-year-old goalkeeper is preparing to play his last tournament (after the 2014, 2018, 2022 World Cups and the 2016, 2020 and 2024 Euros):  My family is here because this could be my last tournament…he soberly concluded.

Walking away with the trophy would be awesome.

Italy beats Belgium on penalties to win the U17 Euro