BRUSSELS, BELGIUM — Veteran midfielder Axel Witsel has announced his retirement from international football, ending an 18-year career with Belgium in which he became the country’s second-most capped player and a cornerstone of the nation’s golden generation.
The 37-year-old made the announcement on Wednesday in a heartfelt statement posted on his social media channels, bringing the curtain down on a distinguished international career that spanned nearly two decades. Witsel earned 136 caps for Belgium, scoring 12 goals, and represented his country at four FIFA World Cups and three UEFA European Championships.
“After 18 years, it is time for me to say goodbye to the national team. It has been an honour and a privilege to wear the red shirt of Belgium,” Witsel wrote. “I have lived my dream, and I am grateful for every moment, every match, and every memory. Thank you to my teammates, my coaches, the staff, and most of all, the fans. You have always been behind us, through the good times and the bad.”
Witsel made his debut for Belgium in 2008 at the age of 19 and quickly established himself as a key figure in the national team. He was part of the squad that reached the quarter-finals of the 2014 World Cup and the semi-finals of the 2018 World Cup, where Belgium finished third, their best-ever performance at the tournament. He also played a pivotal role in Belgium’s run to the quarter-finals of the 2016 and 2020 European Championships.
Known for his composure, versatility, and tactical intelligence, Witsel was a mainstay in midfield for Belgium for over a decade. He played under several coaches, including Marc Wilmots and Roberto Martinez, and was widely respected for his professionalism and leadership qualities both on and off the pitch.
Belgium’s football association paid tribute to Witsel, describing him as “a true legend of Belgian football” and “an exemplary professional who always gave his best for his country.” The association announced that a special farewell ceremony would be held in his honour during Belgium’s next home match.
Witsel’s club career has also been illustrious. He played for Standard Liège, Benfica, Zenit Saint Petersburg, Tianjin Quanjian, Borussia Dortmund, and Atlético Madrid, winning numerous domestic titles and establishing himself as one of the most consistent midfielders in European football. He currently plays for Girona in Spain.
Reflecting on his international career, Witsel said he was proud of what he and his teammates had achieved, particularly the 2018 World Cup run, which captivated the nation and inspired a generation of young Belgian players.
“We showed that a small country like Belgium can compete with the best in the world. We gave everything, and we came close. That is something I will always cherish,” he said.
Witsel’s retirement marks the end of an era for Belgium’s golden generation, with several of his contemporaries having already hung up their international boots. He wished the current squad well, expressing confidence that the future remains bright for Belgian football.
“I am leaving the national team in good hands. There is so much talent coming through, and I believe Belgium will continue to do great things. I will be their biggest supporter from now on,” he said.
As Witsel bows out, he leaves behind a legacy of excellence, professionalism, and dedication that will inspire future generations of Belgian footballers. His name will forever be etched in the history of Belgian football as one of its greatest servants.
