The Golden Generation player from Belgium, Toby Alderweireld, has announced his retirement from active duty.
The 34-year-old, who played 127 times for his country over the course of a 13-year career, is third in Red Devils history in terms of total caps.
The former Tottenham and Atletico Madrid center back Toby Alderweireld played for Belgium at five successive major competitions, including three World Cups and two European Championships. He was also a part of the Russia 2018 team that came in third place.
Yet after a discouraging group stage exit in Qatar the previous year, he has now become the most seasoned player on their team to retire from international competition.
“As a little boy, I dreamed of playing for the national team,” Alderweireld told the Belgium national team’s official website. “I am very grateful and proud that this dream has become a reality.
“I can look back, 14 years later, on 127 international matches, three World Cups, two European Championships and countless beautiful memories.
We loved growing older with you, Toby. 🥰 #MerciToby pic.twitter.com/IN2oN0Mevw
— Belgian Red Devils (@BelRedDevils) March 6, 2023
“With pain in my heart, I announce that I will retire from the Red Devils with immediate effect I have given myself completely, physically and mentally.
“I want to thank all my team-mates and the staff for the unforgettable moments we shared together. Without them, none of this would have been possible.”
Alderweireld made his debut against Chile in 2009, although he didn’t start playing regularly until 2013.
He later played for them at the World Cups in Brazil in 2014, Russia in 2018, Qatar in 2022, as well as Euro 2016 and Euro 2020.
His resignation follows team-mate Eden Hazard’s decision to bow out following their poor Qatar campaign.
Later this month, Belgium will compete in a Euro 2024 qualifying match against Sweden and a friendly match against Germany for their first games under new coach Domenico Tedesco.
Source: The Independent Ghana