Report: The main reason behind Real Madrid veteran’s decision to step away from international football

Report: The main reason behind Real Madrid veteran’s decision to step away from international football Earlier this week, Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois announced that he was going to take a break from playing for the Belgium national team. The 34-year-old shot-stopper made the announcement after putting in a spectacular display for Los Blancos in the 2-1 win over Inter Milan on Tuesday night. “No, I’m not going to play any Nations League matches, not even the Final Four, unless the coach needs me because there are too many injuries,”   he said , ruling himself out of contention for the upcoming UEFA Nations League. However, Courtois intends to represent Belgium when the UEFA Euro 2028 comes around, although he was made aware that he will no longer be a starter when he opts to return and will have to fight for his place. The driving force behind Courtois’ decision Now, according to MARCA , Courtois has chosen not to play in the Nations League for Belgium believing that he needs to manage his workload more carefully. Motivated to win trophies at Real Madrid. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images) After giving everything to his country throughout his international career, his immediate priority is now Real Madrid. He wants to use international breaks to rest, work and reduce the physical risks that have accumulated over recent seasons. At 34, Courtois understands the demands of playing for Real Madrid better than most. Almost every match requires him to operate at the highest possible level, and he knows that maintaining that standard means listening more carefully to his body. The Belgian is determined to put last season’s lack of trophies behind him and return to lifting silverware with Real Madrid. He knows the club is entering a new era under Mourinho and that the project still needs time to settle. But he also knows his role will be crucial during that process. A key cog After all, Courtois is one of the senior leaders in the Real Madrid dressing room. His age, experience, performances and personality give his voice considerable weight. A vital player for Real Madrid. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images) The veteran shot-stopper has experienced almost everything during his time in Madrid, from difficult periods to Champions League triumphs, extraordinary comebacks and historic nights. He has also had to overcome the serious knee injury that threatened to keep him away from his best for a prolonged period. He returned from that setback and once again showed the same level. The match against Inter Milan carried additional significance for Courtois. He made his 100th Champions League appearance, joining an exclusive group of players to reach that landmark. Courtois is the first Belgian player to reach 100 Champions League appearances and only the eighth goalkeeper to achieve the feat. And he marked the occasion in typically spectacular fashion. And, his motivation remains as strong as ever. Courtois wants to win again with Real Madrid.