Denmark face a major setback ahead of crucial World Cup qualifiers after Kasper Schmeichel withdrew from the national squad with a shoulder injury. That’s despite recently training with Celtic.
The decision leaves Denmark without their long‑time first‑choice goalkeeper for a decisive international window.
Mystery Surrounds Schmeichel’s Injury
Esktra Bladet report that questions had emerged after Schmeichel was seen training with Celtic earlier in the week. Martin O’Neill then stated that the goalkeeper was “feeling much, much better” in his Friday press conference.
However, Schmeichel later confirmed he had informed Denmark head coach Brian Riemer that he would not be fit in time for the upcoming qualifiers.
That led BOLD to reach out to Schmeichel’s camp. They insisted that they had no comments to provide on O’Neil’s statement. Instead, they referred to the interview Schmeichel had given to TV 2 Sport. He had nothing more to add than that.
“I called Brian today and said that I cannot play the upcoming World Cup matches here in March,” the Celtic goalkeeper told the TV station.
“It hurts me a lot. Throughout my career I have done everything to play for the Danish national team. It is just the biggest thing for me. I’m with the boys all the way. I know they will give everything to qualify us for the World Cup.”
Denmark Coach ‘Upset’ by Withdrawal
Bold then turned to Denmark coach Brian Riemer. He was happy to admit that he’s unhappy with Schmeichel’s decision to withdraw from the squad.
“We are concerned that Kasper has informed me today that he is not available for the upcoming international matches due to an injury,” he said.
“We are always upset about receiving cancellations. But I am pleased that we are well equipped in the goalkeeper position with two goalkeepers who perform at a high level in the Premier League. I am very comfortable with that.”
Denmark now face North Macedonia on 26 March knowing they must do so without the goalkeeper who has anchored their side for more than half a decade.
It will be the first time since 2018 that Schmeichel is absent for a major Denmark fixture. That void that places immediate pressure on likely replacements Mads Hermansen and Filip Jørgensen.
