Thibaut Courtois has broken his silence about his controversial return to the Belgian national team, revealing details about the conversations that took place with his teammates.
Fallout from 2023 Captaincy Dispute
Courtois had been absent from the squad for nearly two years following a fallout with former coach Domenico Tedesco in June 2023 over the captaincy.
His absence meant the Real Madrid goalkeeper, who has 102 caps for Belgium, missed out on the European Championship.
However, with Tedesco’s departure and Rudi Garcia stepping in as the new coach in January, Courtois reconsidered his stance.
Courtois’ Return and Squad Reaction
Garcia’s first squad announcement last Friday included Courtois back in the team, a decision that sparked frustration from fellow goalkeeper Koen Casteels.
Casteels openly criticized the Belgian Football Association for welcoming Courtois back after he previously vowed never to play for the team again.
Addressing the issue in a press conference before Belgium’s World Cup qualifiers, Courtois acknowledged Casteels’ concerns.
“I understand Koen’s frustration because he was number one while I was away, but the football association wanted me back, so I made myself available,” Courtois explained.
He also responded to Casteels’ claims of further dissatisfaction within the squad, saying, “If you say something, you should name it directly.”
Tielemans Urges Team Unity
Aston Villa midfielder Youri Tielemans, seated beside Courtois during the press conference, expressed disappointment with Casteels’ public remarks.
“We didn’t need that kind of negativity,” Tielemans said.
“The important thing is that Thibaut had the chance to explain himself, and we’re now focused on moving forward as a group.”
Casteels Steps Away from National Team
Casteels, meanwhile, doubled down on his stance during a Belgian podcast appearance.
He criticized the football association’s decision to reintegrate Courtois, calling it inconsistent with proper team values.
“It’s strange that Courtois can decide for himself if he wants to return,” Casteels remarked, announcing he would no longer make himself available for the national squad.
Building Bridges with the Team
To address any tension, Courtois held a meeting with his teammates shortly after rejoining the squad.
He revealed that the group spoke openly over dinner to clear misunderstandings.
“There was a lot of half-information going around, so I explained everything, and my teammates asked their questions,” Courtois shared.
“It’s all sorted now.”
Manager’s Support and Focus on the Future
Coach Rudi Garcia personally welcomed Courtois back at the Red Devils’ training ground.
Alongside Kevin De Bruyne, Romelu Lukaku, and Youri Tielemans — whom Garcia considers the squad’s key leaders — the group discussed Courtois’ reintegration.
Garcia addressed the situation publicly, emphasizing a fresh start.
“We’re starting with a clean slate,” Garcia stated.
“I’ll speak with the leaders, but I won’t keep dwelling on the past. We need to move forward.”
Winning Back the Fans
Courtois admitted he’s eager to mend his relationship with Belgian supporters but is aware that some may remain upset.
“All I can do now is focus on performing well,” Courtois said.
“I’m sorry things unfolded this way, but I can’t control public opinion.
Hopefully, I can win back their trust on the pitch.”