Veteran defender Jan Vertonghen has announced his retirement from international football, drawing a close to a remarkable 157-cap career for Belgium. The 37-year-old’s decision follows a series of near misses and a soul-crushing own goal that sealed Belgium’s fate at Euro 2024.
Vertonghen’s social media statement, a poignant “Thanks for all the memories. I have lived my dream,” barely masks the bittersweet nature of his departure. He debuted at a youthful 20, thrown into the crucible of a Euro 2008 qualifier that Belgium agonizingly lost to Portugal at home.
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Since then, Vertonghen has been a constant presence at the heart of the Belgian defense, witnessing both the highs and lows of the “Golden Generation.” He donned the captain’s armband on occasion, leading the Red Devils to the quarter-finals of the 2014 World Cup in Brazil and a historic semi-final appearance in Russia four years later.
Qatar 2022 offered a glimmer of hope, but ultimately ended in disappointment. Euro 2024, however, proved to be a cruel stage for Vertonghen’s swansong. His own goal in the dying moments of the last-16 clash against France extinguished Belgium’s flame and undoubtedly played a significant role in his decision to step away.
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Vertonghen’s club future also hangs in the balance. His contract with Anderlecht expired at the end of June, leaving him unattached. Previously, he carved out a successful club career with spells at RKC Waalwijk, Ajax, Tottenham Hotspur, and Benfica.
Vertonghen’s departure marks the end of an era for Belgian football. His leadership, experience, and defensive solidity will be sorely missed. While his international chapter is closed, his legacy as a pillar of the “Golden Generation” will undoubtedly be celebrated.
