Axel Witsel Makes Surprise Return to Belgium Squad for Euro 2024

Belgium’s national team coach, Domenico Tedesco, has made a notable decision by recalling Axel Witsel (35) to the squad for the upcoming Euro 2024 tournament in Germany. However, there’s a notable absence in the squad as Thibaut Courtois (32), despite his recent Champions League final appearance with Real Madrid, has not been included.

The decision to bring back Witsel, who announced his international retirement last year, comes after Tedesco personally visited the Atletico Madrid defender to convince him to return to the national team fold. Witsel’s last appearance for Belgium was during the World Cup in Qatar, where the team faced an early exit in the group stage.

Courtois, on the other hand, had a public falling out with Tedesco last June when he walked out on the squad after not being named captain following Eden Hazard’s retirement. Although Courtois has since expressed regret and returned to action for Real Madrid, his rift with the coach seems unresolved, leading to his exclusion from the Euro 2024 squad.

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Tedesco, addressing Courtois’ absence, stated, “Courtois was very clear and honest in his communication. The latest information we received is that he is not ready for the European Championships. He knows his body best.”

Explaining Witsel’s inclusion, Tedesco emphasized the midfielder’s quality and experience, highlighting his pivotal role at Atletico Madrid. The coach believes Witsel’s experience will be invaluable in guiding the younger players during the tournament.

In addition to Witsel’s return, Tedesco has included uncapped Club Brugge full-back Maxim De Cuyper in the squad, citing the player’s deserving performance. The squad also features seasoned internationals like Jan Vertonghen, who continues to represent Belgium at the age of 37, and top scorer Romelu Lukaku, who boasts an impressive record of 83 goals in 114 appearances.

The 25-man squad, one less than the maximum allowed by UEFA, reflects Tedesco’s strategic choices as Belgium aims for success in Euro 2024.