Belgium’s football stars have taken a break following their disappointing exit from the World Cup in Qatar, where they were unable to replicate their success from 2018. After an unconvincing 1-0 win over Canada and a surprising 2-0 defeat to Morocco, the team’s hopes were dashed despite a better performance against Croatia. Romelu Lukaku’s missed opportunities in that match ultimately cost them a chance to advance.
As Lukaku prepares to return to Inter Milan for training, other Belgian players have headed off on holiday. Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois is enjoying a romantic getaway in the Maldives with his fiancée, Mishel Gerzig. The couple shared a heartwarming picture on Instagram, soaking up the sun before Courtois returns to action with Real Madrid on December 30.
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Kevin De Bruyne, on the other hand, has taken his family to Lapland, where they are braving the cold temperatures around a campfire. Young talent Jeremy Doku opted for a shorter trip, flying from Doha to Dubai for some sun, while Aston Villa’s Leander Dendoncker has ventured even further east to Japan with his girlfriend, Anna Steegen.
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Amidst these holidays, a significant change has come with Eden Hazard announcing his retirement from international football at the age of 31. The Real Madrid star, who earned 126 caps for Belgium, expressed gratitude for the support he received throughout his career in a heartfelt Instagram post. He noted, “A page turns today… Thank you for your love… I have decided to put an end to my international career. The succession is ready. I will miss you…” This marks the end of an era for Belgian football as they look toward a new generation.