At just 26 years old, Belgian international Zinho Vanheusden has announced his retirement in a heartfelt message shared on Instagram. The former Inter Milan defender, who was once hailed as one of Belgium’s brightest football prospects after rising through the ranks at Standard Liège, has seen his career severely impacted by recurring injuries. He recently suffered his third anterior cruciate ligament tear while playing in Spain’s third division with Marbella. Vanheusden has played for Standard, Genoa, and AZ Alkmaar but never made a significant mark at Inter due to his ongoing physical issues. In 2020, he played his only match for Belgium.
In his message, Vanheusden reflects on a decision he “never thought he would have to make at this age,” after 22 years of football filled with both highlights and silent struggles. He mentioned that he “gave everything to return” despite surgeries, treatments, and the constant uncertainty regarding his body’s response after each session. “Deep down, I would always want to be a footballer, but my body says stop,” he wrote, explaining his desire to prioritize his health and role as a father. “I want to live pain-free, play with my son, and enjoy life with my family,” he concluded, closing the chapter on a promising career that was unfortunately marred by injuries.
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