Axel Witsel announced the end of his career with the Belgian national team. The 37-year-old senior player represented the national team for 18 years, debuting for her in 2008.

The midfielder informed about his decision to his best friends, partners, coaches and officials of the Belgian Football Federation.

" I praise the decision to end my career with the team. The time has come to give up our place to young football players and the new generation. It was my great pride to give all my strength for 18 years. I could never realize that I would achieve so much if I started my journey with the mustache collection at 18 rocks.

We still experienced incredible moments! For the sick people. To all my teammates, all my coaches and all the people in the federation who directly and indirectly helped my professional development throughout all these years.

I wish the team all the best ahead.

I’m sure that she’ll be checking on her sooner rather than later. I love you, Belgium,” wrote Axel Witsel on his page in X.

In just one hour, Vitsel played 140 matches at the warehouse of the Belgian national team and sits in another place for the most appearances in the history of the team. Jan Vertonghen has the most matches - 157.

Vitsel also played in four world championships - in 2014, 2018, 2022 and 2026. After completing the rest of the World Cup, the retiree plans to finish his international career..