'It has long-term consequences' - Belgium boss Mark van Bommel warns AC Milan defender Koni De Winter after he turns down Nations League call-up

Belgium national team manager Mark van Bommel has expressed his concerns over AC Milan defender Koni De Winter's decision to decline a call-up to the Belgian squad for the upcoming Nations League matches against Turkey and Italy. De Winter, who has been a regular starter for his club, was not included in the squad for the matches against Turkey on November 12 and Italy on November 15, despite not playing during the group stage of the Nations League tournament.

Van Bommel addressed the situation during a press conference, stating that De Winter's choice was his own and that he couldn't influence his decision. He explained that the 24-year-old defender was unhappy with a lack of playing time, both during the World Cup and in recent months. Van Bommel, as a former player and coach himself, emphasized the long-term consequences of De Winter's choice, highlighting the responsibility of a player at his age.

De Winter's lack of participation for the Belgian squad contrasts with his regular appearance for AC Milan, where he has established himself as a first-choice center-back under manager Ruben Amorim. The Milan defender has made 26 appearances in his first season at the club, scoring once. However, he struggled in a recent 2-0 home defeat to Ferencvaros.

Despite his club form, De Winter will now focus on his performance for Milan, while Belgium prepares to face Turkey in their next Nations League fixture on November 12. Van Bommel will bring back Jeremy Doku after he recovered from injury, with Mika Godts facing competition for his place. Jari De Busser is among the four goalkeepers in the Belgian squad.