FIFA World Cup 2026: Belgium Veteran Axel Witsel Seeks New Club After Girona Relegation

As Belgium gears up for its opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup , veteran midfielder Axel Witsel has clarified his club future, confirming that he will leave Girona at the end of the month and has no plans to return to his boyhood club, Standard Liege .

The 37 year old midfielder, who joined Girona after a three year stint with Atletico Madrid , will become a free agent when his contract expires on June 30. Girona's relegation from La Liga played a decisive role in his decision to move on.

Speaking from Belgium's World Cup training camp in the United States, Witsel admitted that leaving Girona comes with mixed emotions but stressed that he still has plenty left to offer on the pitch.

"I am not staying at Girona because I am a free agent and we have been relegated," Witsel said, adding that he remains determined to continue playing at the highest possible level.

The experienced midfielder also reiterated his commitment to the Belgian national team. Despite announcing his international retirement in 2023, Witsel reversed that decision a year later and is now preparing to feature in his fourth World Cup.

A return to Standard Liege , where he began his professional career in 2006, has often been discussed by fans. However, Witsel firmly dismissed the possibility, saying a comeback to a former club is rarely straightforward, especially after achieving success elsewhere.

The former Borussia Dortmund , Zenit St Petersburg , and Atletico Madrid star has been one of Belgium's most dependable performers for nearly two decades. Since making his international debut in 2008, he has earned 138 caps and scored 12 goals , becoming a key figure in the country's golden generation.

Meanwhile, Belgium's preparations have been slightly affected by the absence of defender Zeno Debast , who continues to recover from a leg injury suffered while training with Sporting Lisbon last month. The 22 year old centre back is expected to miss the early stages of the tournament.

Belgium will open its World Cup campaign against Egypt on Monday in Seattle, with Witsel focused on helping the Red Devils make a strong start before deciding where the next chapter of his club career will unfold.