127 not out: Toby Alderweireld to continue with the Red Devils

Toby Alderweireld has confirmed that he will not retire after the World Cup exit, despite seriously considering it following the group stage exit. As reported by Het Nieuwsblad, the 33 year old defender has confirmed his intentions to remain available for the Red Devils.

Fellow Red Devil Eden Hazard announced his retirement almost immediately after the draw with Croatia, yet when asked about following suite, Alderweireld was keen to reiterate his commitment to the national team. The Antwerp captain said “I think we have to respect Hazard’s decision, but for me the urge to help my country was still too strong”.

The former Southampton and Tottenham player has made 127 appearances for the Red Devils, scoring five goals and being a key part of the so called Golden Generation.

Alderweireld joined Antwerp in the summer of 2022 and was immediately given the captains armband by new head coach Mark Van Bommel. Under the Dutchman, Antwerp are currently third in the table, despite an unbeaten start that only ended in October. However, prior to the World Cup break the side had only won one of their previous five matches. The Antwerp head coach had recently said that he believes Alderweireld could continue playing for the Belgian national team.

GBeNeFN | Ben Jackson

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