Belgian midfielder Axel Witsel has announced his retirement from international football, concluding an 18-year career with the national team. The 37-year-old made his final appearance during Belgium’s 2-1 defeat to Spain in the World Cup quarter-finals in July, a tournament ultimately won by the Spanish side.

Witsel, who earned 140 caps for Belgium, is the country’s second-most capped player behind Jan Vertonghen, who has made 157 appearances. Reflecting on his decision, Witsel stated that it was time to "make way for the youngsters and the new generation." He also expressed surprise at his own longevity and achievements since debuting in 2008 at the age of 18.

Throughout his international career, Witsel was a central figure in Belgium’s so-called "golden generation," playing alongside notable teammates such as Kevin De Bruyne, Romelu Lukaku, and Eden Hazard. Despite their talent and consistent presence among the world’s top teams, Belgium did not secure a major international title during his tenure. Their closest attempt was at the 2018 World Cup when they were eliminated by France in the semi-finals.

At club level, Witsel recently joined Ligue 1 side Nice after transferring from Spanish club Girona during the summer. His previous clubs include Borussia Dortmund in Germany and Atletico Madrid in Spain. His international retirement marks the end of a distinguished career defined by leadership and consistency in midfield for Belgium.