Veteran midfielder Axel Witsel has said goodbye to international football. He announced his retirement on Wednesday after an impressive career with Belgium. Witsel is now their second-most capped player.
The 37-year-old played his 140th and final match for Belgium in a 2-1 loss to Spain during the World Cup quarter-finals in July.
“It’s time to make way for the youngsters and the new generation,” Witsel shared in a post on social media.
“I never imagined achieving so much when I started out at just 18 years old.” Witsel began his international journey in 2008. He became a key part of Belgium’s 'golden generation', which included stars like Kevin De Bruyne, Romelu Lukaku, and Eden Hazard.
Despite their talent, this team never won a major tournament. Their best chance came at the 2018 World Cup when they reached the semi-finals but lost to France.
Only Witsel's long-time teammate Jan Vertonghen, with 157 caps, has played more matches for Belgium than he has.
In the close-season, Witsel joined Ligue 1 club Nice from Girona. He has also played for Borussia Dortmund and Atletico Madrid.
Drop your comment
No comments yet — be the first to drop the gist 👇