Thibaut Courtois opts out of Belgium Nations League squad

Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has announced his decision to opt out of Belgium’s upcoming UEFA Nations League campaign. The 34-year-old veteran, who has earned 115 caps for the national team, stated he will only be available for the squad in the event of an emergency injury situation involving other goalkeepers.

Despite his absence from the Nations League, Courtois confirmed he remains fully available for Euro 2028 qualification matches, which he identified as his primary international target. Belgium head coach Mark van Bommel has accepted the decision, though he noted that Courtois will not be guaranteed a starting position upon his return, as other players may earn the spot during his absence.

The decision has drawn criticism from analyst Johan Boskamp, who argued that players should not be allowed to choose which international fixtures they participate in. Boskamp suggested that if players are permitted to select their own matches, it sets a difficult precedent for the rest of the squad.