Belgian Witsel Retires from International Football

Belgian midfielder Axel Witsel announced today, Friday, his retirement from international play after a career spanning over 15 years. Witsel (34 years old) participated in 130 international matches and was part of the squad that finished third in the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia. He played as a starter in all three matches the Belgian national team played in the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, where Belgium failed to advance past the group stage. The Atletico Madrid player wrote on Instagram today, "After careful consideration, with a lot of emotions, I have made the decision to retire from international football." He stated, "I am very proud to have represented my country for the last 15 years. Now it is important for me to dedicate more time to my family and focus on the club I play for."