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Axel Witsel retires from Belgium international football career

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 16, 2026, 6:21 PM

Last updated Sep 16, 2026

Axel Witsel retires from Belgium international football career

Summary

Axel Witsel has announced his retirement from international football, concluding an 18-year career with Belgium. The 37-year-old veteran midfielder made his last appearance during the World Cup quarter-finals against Spain in July, where Belgium suffered a 2-1 defeat. Witsel concluded his time with 140 caps, trailing only teammate Jan Vertonghen in national appearances. He emphasized the need for new talent to emerge, marking a transition in Belgium's squad. Witsel joined Ligue 1 club Nice earlier this summer after stints with Borussia Dortmund and Atletico Madrid.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Witsel played 140 matches for Belgium, making him the second-most capped player.
•He last featured in a World Cup quarter-final loss to Spain in July.
•Witsel joined Nice earlier this summer after previous spells in Europe's top leagues.
•He calls for new players to step up for the national team.

Latest Updates

6:21 PMYahoo Sports — Witsel retires from internationals after 18-year Belgium career

What they're saying

"
Veteran midfielder Axel Witsel announced his retirement from international football on Wednesday, bringing an end to a Belgium career which saw him become their second-most capped player.Only long-time teammate Jan Vertonghen, with 157 caps, has played more times for Belgium than Witsel.
— Yahoo Sports

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