Courtois steps away from Belgium duty but keeps international future open

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Thibaut Courtois will miss Belgium’s upcoming Nations League campaign but has no plans to retire from international football, according to Belgian media.

The 34-year-old goalkeeper had previously indicated that he was considering taking a break from the national team following the World Cup, with the demanding Nations League schedule among the reasons for his decision.

Belgium are set to face France, Italy and Turkey in a six-match Nations League campaign over the next three months, but Courtois has chosen not to be involved.

Speaking after Real Madrid’s 2-1 Champions League victory over Inter Milan on Tuesday, Courtois confirmed that new Belgium head coach Mark van Bommel understands and respects his decision.
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