I feel an immense love and pride in representing my country, as well as each of you on the field. I am proud to wear the national team jersey. Even in my wildest dreams, I could not have imagined being able to do this more than 100 times. Unfortunately, after the events with the coach and after much reflection, I have decided not to return to the Belgian national team under his leadership. In this matter, I take my share of responsibility. The lack of trust I have in him would not have contributed to maintaining the necessary genuine atmosphere.
I want to express my sincere gratitude to all the Belgian fans who have supported me throughout my international career. Your unwavering support has been truly inspiring and has pushed me to give my all on the pitch. When I wear the national team colors, I feel a profound connection with the proud history and tradition of Belgian football. The moments I have shared with you, the Belgian supporters, are etched into my memory forever. From the roar of the crowd at the packed stadiums to the sea of red, yellow, and black flags, your passion and energy have been the fuel that has driven me forward. You are not just fans, you are an integral part of the Belgian national team.
While I may not be able to don the jersey again, I want you to know that a piece of my heart will always remain with the Belgian national team and its devoted supporters. The memories we have created together will continue to motivate and inspire me, even as I move on to the next chapter of my career. I understand that my decision may be met with disappointment, and I respect that. I hope that you can understand the reasons behind my choice and that you will continue to support the national team and its players.
The future of Belgian football is bright, and I have no doubt that the team will continue to make you proud. To the Belgian fans, I say this: thank you for your unwavering support, your infectious enthusiasm, and your unwavering loyalty. You are the heart and soul of Belgian football, and I am honored to have had the opportunity to represent you on the international stage. While my time with the national team may have come to an end, the bond we have forged will endure forever.
The federation with whom I have had discussions accepts my position and the reasons that have led to this painful, but consistent decision. I regret that I may have disappointed some fans. However, I am convinced that this is the best decision for the development of the Belgian national team, as it puts an end to the discussion and allows the team to focus on achieving its goals,” Courtois wrote in his social media account. The former head coach of Moscow’s Spartak, took over the Belgian national team in February 2023. Courtois was not included in the “Red Devils” roster for the recent Euro 2024. It was reported that this was due to the goalkeeper’s desire to fully recover from a serious injury.
As a player who has proudly represented Belgium for over a decade, this decision did not come easy. I have poured my heart and soul into wearing the national team jersey, and the thought of leaving it behind is truly bittersweet. However, I firmly believe that this is the right path forward, both for myself and for the future of the Belgian national team. The events that transpired with the new coach were complex, and I take full responsibility for my role in the situation. While I have the utmost respect for the coach’s abilities, the lack of trust and communication between us made it increasingly difficult to maintain the necessary synergy and unity within the team. As a leader on the pitch, I felt that this divide would ultimately hinder the team’s progress and prevent us from reaching our full potential.
It is with a heavy heart that I make this announcement, as I know how much the national team means to the Belgian fans. You have supported us through thick and thin, and your unwavering passion has been a driving force behind our successes. I have been truly humbled by the love and adoration you have shown me over the years, and I will forever cherish the memories we have created together. However, I firmly believe that the long-term interests of the Belgian national team must take precedence. By stepping away, I hope to allow the team to move forward without the distractions and tensions that have surrounded my involvement. I want the players and the coaching staff to be able to focus solely on their preparations and to have the best possible chance of achieving their goals. To the young players who are poised to take the reins of the national team, I offer my sincere encouragement and support.
You are the future of Belgian football, and I have no doubt that you will continue to make the country proud. Remember to embrace the passion and pride that comes with representing your nation, and never lose sight of the ultimate goal: to bring glory and success to the Belgian colors. To the Belgian fans, I ask for your understanding and continued support. While I may no longer be part of the national team, my love and admiration for the country and its football heritage will never waver. I will always be a proud Belgian, and I will eagerly follow the team’s progress and achievements from the sidelines. This decision may be difficult, but I believe it is the right one. By stepping away, I hope to allow the team to move forward without the distractions and tensions that have surrounded my involvement. I want the players and the coaching staff to be able to focus solely on their preparations and to have the best possible chance of achieving their goals.
