Koni De Winter has turned down a call-up to Belgium’s squad for the upcoming Nations League matches against Turkey and Italy, prompting coach Mark van Bommel to warn the AC Milan defender that his decision will have lasting consequences.
Belgium face Turkey on November 12 and Italy on November 15 without De Winter, who has not played a single minute in Belgium’s four Nations League group games this season. Despite being a regular starter at Milan, De Winter chose not to join the national team camp. Van Bommel confirmed this during his squad announcement and press conference on Friday.
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“Koni De Winter is absent because he didn’t feel comfortable in his situation and decided not to come. It’s his choice, I can’t do anything about it,” Van Bommel said. The coach explained that De Winter had been unhappy with his lack of playing time for Belgium, including at the recent World Cup and in the months since.
Van Bommel said he had discussed the matter directly with the 24-year-old defender before naming the squad. “I spoke to him and explained the situation, as a coach, a former player and a father,” the Dutchman added. “You have to accept it, but it has long-term consequences. He’s 24 and he’s a responsible person.”
Belgian media have interpreted Van Bommel’s comments as a signal that De Winter will likely miss future international breaks. The defender, who has earned eight caps for Belgium, has seen his role with the national team diminish sharply even as he has established himself at club level.
De Winter joined AC Milan from Genoa in the summer of 2025 for around €20 million. He made 26 appearances in his first season, scoring once. This season, under Ruben Amorim, he has secured a starting spot at centre-back ahead of the injured Matteo Gabbia, featuring in 10 Serie A and four Europa League matches.
However, De Winter struggled in Milan’s recent 2-0 home defeat to Ferencvaros in the Europa League on Thursday. Meanwhile, his Milan teammate Diego Moreira has been called up by Belgium for the Nations League fixtures.
With De Winter absent, Van Bommel’s squad includes the return of Jeremy Doku, who has recovered from injury. Mika Godts faces increased competition for his place, while Jari De Busser is among four goalkeepers selected.
De Winter will now focus on his club duties as Belgium prepare for their trip to Turkey on November 12. The situation leaves questions about the defender’s future involvement with the national team as Van Bommel’s comments suggest a tougher stance from the coach going forward.
According to Yahoo Sports.
