“I have decided not to return to the Belgian national team under his management”, Says Thibaut Courtois

Thibaut Courtois, Real Madrid’s star goalkeeper, has announced that he will not represent the Belgium national team as long as Domenico Tedesco remains the manager. Courtois, who has earned 102 caps for Belgium, made his decision following a fallout with Tedesco in June 2023. This disagreement led to Courtois leaving the national squad before their Euro 2024 qualifier against Estonia.

Despite returning to full fitness and playing in Real Madrid’s Champions League final, Courtois was omitted from Belgium’s Euro 2024 squad. The 32-year-old missed much of the previous season due to two knee injuries but had hoped to be part of the tournament. However, his ongoing rift with Tedesco prevented his inclusion.

In a statement posted on Instagram, Courtois expressed regret but stood by his decision: “After careful reflection, I have decided not to return to the Belgian national team under the current management. While I accept my share of responsibility in this matter, my lack of confidence in the coach would only hinder the necessary atmosphere of cordiality.”

Thibaut Courtois acknowledged that his decision might disappoint some fans but insisted it was in the best interest of Belgium’s national team. He added that the Belgian Football Federation understood his position and the reasons behind his choice, which he described as “painful but coherent.”

Belgium’s Euro 2024 campaign ended in disappointment, with the team being eliminated by France in the last 16. During the tournament, Koen Casteels, the goalkeeper for Al-Qadsiah, was the starting choice for all four of Belgium’s games.

Courtois’ absence marks a significant shift for the Belgian team as they look to move forward without one of their most experienced and successful players.