“He cost us a lot” – Schmeichel Urged to Quit International Football

In a shocking statement, former Denmark international Nicklas Bendtner has urged Kasper Schmeichel to step away from international football despite the veteran goalkeeper’s recent penalty-saving heroics against Cristiano Ronaldo.

Schmeichel, currently Celtic’s number one, has faced scrutiny following Denmark’s crushing 5-2 defeat to Portugal in the UEFA Nations League quarterfinals—where he also sustained a shoulder injury in extra time.

Bendtner Questions Schmeichel’s Place in the Squad

Having played alongside Schmeichel for Denmark, Bendtner didn’t hold back when assessing the 38-year-old’s future. While acknowledging Schmeichel’s ability and experience, the outspoken ex-striker believes Denmark’s national team needs to move on from the veteran shot-stopper.

“My question mark for the Danish team is around the goalkeeper,” Bendtner told The National. “Kasper is 38 now – I like him a lot, but he cost us a lot of goals in Portugal. He has grown bigger. I admire the man a great deal, but when he is 38 in such an important position and you have two Premier League keepers behind you, it’s time for the coach Brian Riemer to change it.”

Bendtner’s remarks suggest that Denmark’s head coach should consider shifting focus toward younger options, particularly Mads Hermansen of Brentford, who is waiting for his chance to establish himself as Denmark’s new first-choice goalkeeper.

A Changing of the Guard?

Bendtner believes the transition should start as early as June, giving Hermansen valuable playing time in Denmark’s upcoming friendlies.

“I would expect Mads Hermansen to play in our friendlies in June to see how he copes with it,” Bendtner added.

While some see this as a natural evolution for Denmark, others argue that Schmeichel’s leadership and experience still hold value, particularly in major tournaments.

Schmeichel’s Status at Celtic

While his international future is being debated, Schmeichel remains a key figure for Celtic, despite recent injury setbacks. The veteran goalkeeper, who joined the Scottish champions in the summer of 2024, has shown he can still perform at the highest level. His penalty save against Ronaldo was a reminder of his ability to deliver in crucial moments, even as criticism mounts in his homeland.

As Denmark prepares for the next stage of its international journey, Schmeichel faces a tough decision—cling to his role as the team’s last line of defense or step aside for the next generation. Whether he heeds Bendtner’s call or fights to keep his place remains to be seen.

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