Koni De Winter rejects Belgium call-up; Van Bommel warns of heavy sanction

AC Milan centre-back Koni De Winter has declined a call-up to the Belgium national team for the upcoming Nations League window, a decision that was confirmed in reports on November 6, 2026. The player informed coach Marc van Bommel by phone that he does not feel ready to join the squad.

Van Bommel had included De Winter on his list in the usual way, but the defender chose not to answer the selection. According to the account of the phone conversation, De Winter told the coach he is not prepared at this time to represent the national team.

Observers in Belgium have linked the refusal to De Winter’s lack of playing time during the previous international window: in four matches he did not receive a single minute on the pitch, and critics suggest that frustration over that bench role likely influenced his choice.

Coach's response

Marc van Bommel reacted firmly to the player’s decision. He said, "The decision is the player's alone, and it will have serious consequences." Van Bommel indicated that he will consider disciplinary measures and that the situation will affect De Winter’s immediate prospects with the national team.

The coach’s warning opens the door to a significant sanction if the federation's leadership backs disciplinary action. The development leaves Belgium with a selection dilemma ahead of the Nations League fixtures and raises questions about De Winter’s short-term role for both club and country.

Photo: press material from the event