Manchester City skipper Vincent Kompany has promised to exit the Belgium international side after the World Cup next year.
He says he remains motivated ahead of the event in Russia but that he would not remain beyond the mundial.
Kompany has suffered recurring injury concerns in the past few years that threaten his whole career. He missed Euro 2016 and suffered in Pep Guardiola debut season in charge. The move to end his international career might help him stay longer at the Etihad.
He recently fought his way back to the team. With planned fixtures against Czech Rep and Estonia, he has opportunities to feature for the first time in two years in the international stage. Though he is focused on making up for lost time, he says he would not go beyond the World Cup next year. He would be 32 years at the summer event next year.
This might favour his club career with The Citizens. Guardiola could retain him for a two to three more season as he did Carlos Puyol during his time at Barcelona. The Spanish boss has been taking steps at protecting him so he could be at his best when needed.
Back then Manuel Pellegrini was furious that Marc Wilmots used him even when City advised against it. Guardiola is looking at taking the best from Kompany for the forthcoming season, with his performance determining his future. His leadership skills are crucial to the dressing room and Guardiola wants to effect the change gradually.
He sacked five over 30 stars but retained Kompany and Yaya Toure. The 2017/18 season is one where the former Bayern Munich boss is expected to prove his mettle.