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Belgium Defender Zinho Vanheusden Retires at 26 After Third ACL Tear

He cites chronic ACL damage as the reason for prioritizing long‑term health over a continued comeback.

Overview

  • Vanheusden announced his decision on Instagram on Nov. 23, 2025.
  • He suffered a third ACL tear earlier this month with Spain’s Marbella FC after seven appearances this season.
  • Once a highly rated Inter Milan prospect, he never played for their senior side and spent years on loans to Standard Liège, Genoa, AZ Alkmaar and KV Mechelen.
  • He made a single senior appearance for Belgium in a 1-1 friendly against Ivory Coast in 2020.
  • He said he wants to walk without pain and focus on family, with his next professional steps yet to be defined.