In a surprising turn of events, former Denmark international Nicklas Bendtner has called on his former teammate, Kasper Schmeichel, to retire from international football despite his impressive penalty save against Cristiano Ronaldo during the recent international break. Schmeichel, who is currently the Celtic number one, has come under scrutiny following Denmark’s disappointing 5-2 loss to Portugal in the UEFA Nations League quarterfinals, where he sustained a shoulder injury during extra time.
Bendtner’s Concerns Over Schmeichel’s Future
Bendtner, who shared the pitch with Schmeichel during their time with Denmark, voiced his concerns about the goalkeeper’s future in international football. Despite Schmeichel’s penalty heroics in saving Ronaldo’s spot-kick, Bendtner questioned whether the 38-year-old is still the right man for the job, given his age and the competition for the goalkeeper’s position.
“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.”
A Shift in Denmark’s Goalkeeping Plans
Bendtner’s comments have raised eyebrows, as he suggested that Denmark head coach Brian Riemer should consider a change in goalkeeping personnel. With Premier League keepers such as Mads Hermansen waiting in the wings, Bendtner believes it’s time for Schmeichel to step aside for the next generation.
“I would expect Mads Hermansen to play in our friendlies in June to see how he copes with it,” Bendtner added. Hermansen, who currently plays for Brentford, could provide the future stability Denmark needs, according to the former striker.
Denmark’s Kasper Schmeichel looks dejected after the match REUTERS/Thilo Schmuelgen
Schmeichel’s Ongoing Challenges at Celtic
While Schmeichel’s international career may be in question, his role at Celtic remains solid. The veteran goalkeeper, who joined Celtic in the summer of 2024, has faced injury concerns recently, with his shoulder injury adding to the pressure on the Hoops. However, Schmeichel’s penalty save from Ronaldo was a moment to remember, demonstrating his ability to rise to the occasion even amid criticism in his homeland.
As Celtic fans continue to support Schmeichel, questions remain about the long-term future of the Denmark legend at international level. Only time will tell if Schmeichel will take Bendtner’s call to retire from the international scene.
