Thibaut Courtois has made clear he has no intention of walking away from international football once the FIFA World Cup 2026 concludes — though he acknowledged the decision will hinge on how Belgium perform in the tournament and conversations he plans to hold with team management afterwards.

The Real Madrid goalkeeper, who earned his first cap for Belgium in 2011, is set to feature in the team's opening group-stage match against Egypt in Seattle on June 16.

A decision after the dust settles

Courtois spoke openly about the factors that will shape his future with the national team. "I still want to play for a few more years. And then you have to take care of your body," he said.

"If we have a good World Cup, of course. And continuing to feel the good atmosphere within the group. Afterward, I'll need to have an internal discussion with the coach, (technical director) Vincent Mannaert, and the doctors," he added.

His comments arrive at a pivotal moment for Belgium. Several members of the celebrated golden generation — among them Kevin de Bruyne — are moving through the final chapters of their international careers, leaving the squad in a broader period of transition.

Returning from injury with hunger

Courtois also addressed his recovery from a quadriceps injury that disrupted his preparations in the spring, insisting he has emerged from the setback in strong shape.

"Yes, I'm very hungry, just like the rest of the group. I feel very good and I'm looking forward to it. I also worked very hard on my comeback during the spring. The quadriceps injury was unfortunate because at that moment I felt almost unbeatable. But I'm ready to maintain my level now and stay focused," he said.

Belgium face Egypt on June 16, and Courtois appears determined to make that encounter — and whatever follows — count.