Thibaut Courtois refuses to play for Belgium under current coach
Real Madrid keeper Thibaut Courtois, has publicly declared his refusal to rejoin the Belgium national team as long as Domenico Tedesco is the coach. The announcement came via social media on Thursday. This decision follows a season marred by two knee injuries that sidelined Courtois and led him being exclued from Belgium's Euro 2024 squad, despite being fit to start for Real Madrid in the Champions League final.
Courtois's international career and fallout with Tedesco
Courtois has been a significant figure in Belgium's national team since his debut in October 2011, when he became the youngest goalkeeper to represent the country. He has since earned 102 caps and participated in five major tournaments from 2014 to 2022. However, his relationship with head coach Tedesco soured following a disagreement over not being chosen as Eden Hazard's successor as captain in 2023.
Courtois's statement on his decision to leave
In an Instagram post, Courtois explained his decision to leave the national team under Tedesco's leadership. He stated, "Unfortunately, following the events with the coach and after much reflection, I have decided not to return to the Belgian national team under his management." He acknowledged his part in this situation but also expressed a lack of confidence in Tedesco that would hinder maintaining a cordial atmosphere within the team.
Belgian Football Federation supports Courtois's decision
Courtois also revealed that the Belgian Football Federation (BFF) has supported his decision and understands his reasons. He expressed regret for potentially disappointing fans but firmly believes that this move is in the best interest of Belgium. "I regret possibly disappointing some fans, but I am convinced that this is the best course of action for Belgium, as it closes a debate and allows the team to focus on pursuing its goals," he stated.
Courtois's gratitude and Belgium's performance under Tedesco
Despite his decision to leave, Courtois expressed gratitude for the opportunity to represent his country. He stated, "I feel privileged to have had the honor of wearing the national jersey." Meanwhile, Belgium's performance under Tedesco has been inconsistent since he took over in 2023. The team that once topped world rankings for nearly three years and also managed to make it to the 2018 FIFA World Cup semifinals was eliminated by France in Euro 2024's round of 16.
