Toby Alderweireld, the former Tottenham Hotspur defender, may have played his final professional match earlier than anticipated.
The Belgian center-back had already announced that he would be retiring at the end of the current season.
However, a severe injury could now bring his illustrious career to a premature close.
Alderweireld, who now captains his hometown club Royal Antwerp, was set to bid farewell to football on May 25, depending on the club’s performance in the play-offs. But fate had other plans.
A Cruel Injury Blow
During a recent match against Standard Liège, with just five minutes left on the clock, Alderweireld went down after a challenge.
The worst was soon confirmed—he had torn his quadriceps muscle, an injury that typically requires up to three months of recovery.
Given the timing, this setback means he could miss the remainder of the season, effectively ending his career two months earlier than he had planned.
Royal Antwerp released a statement expressing their support for their captain, acknowledging the seriousness of the injury while emphasizing their commitment to his rehabilitation.
“From today, everything is focused on his recovery. Wishing you a speedy recovery, Captain!” the club announced.
Determined to Return for One Last Game
Despite the crushing blow, Alderweireld remains defiant, refusing to let his career end on such a painful note.
Taking to social media, he shared his disappointment but also his unwavering determination to return for at least one more game.
“I never expected this… Right now, I don’t have the words for this,” he admitted.
“What I do know is that I will do everything I can to wear that beautiful shirt one more time.
To be captain of the most beautiful club in the world one more time… It will be a tough battle against time, and I know I’m not on the winning side.”
He went on to thank fans for their overwhelming support, adding, “I want to thank everyone for the heart-warming messages and encouragement I’ve received. You are all fantastic!”
A Remarkable Career Spanning Two Decades
Alderweireld’s career has been nothing short of impressive.
He joined Tottenham Hotspur from Atlético Madrid in 2015 and spent six seasons at the club, making 236 appearances and playing a crucial role in their run to the 2019 Champions League final.
After leaving Spurs in 2021, he had a short stint with Qatari club Al-Duhail before returning to Belgium to join Royal Antwerp.
His impact was immediate—he helped the club secure their first-ever league title and also led them to their first Champions League group stage appearance.
In November, he had confirmed his decision to retire, stating with near certainty that this season would be his last.
Now, with this unexpected injury, his farewell may have arrived sooner than anyone had hoped.
Will He Beat the Odds?
With time working against him, Alderweireld faces an uphill battle to recover in time for one final game before calling it quits.
Fans, teammates, and the club remain hopeful that their captain will get the chance to step onto the pitch one last time.
For now, all eyes are on his rehabilitation, as the Belgian football legend fights for one last dance in the sport he has dedicated his life to.