Thibaut Courtois Quits Belgium National Team, Says Won't Play Under Current Coach

Belgium and Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois released a statement on social media on Thursday, stating that he has decided to not play for the Belgian National Team under the current coach following the fall-out between the two. Thibaut Courtois had missed most of the last season after suffering from two knee injuries. 

He made his comeback for Real Madrid in the UEFA Champions League Final. Despite starting in the final, the star goalkeeper was not selected for Belgium's Euro 2024 squad. During the Euro 2024, Koen Casteels started as the goalkeeper for Belgium in all four of their games before they were eventually eliminated in the Round of 16 by France. 

Lack Of Confidence In The Coach 

In his social media post, Thibaut Courtois wrote, “I feel privileged to have had the honour of wearing the national jersey. Not even in my wildest dreams could I have imagined being able to do so more than 100 times. 

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“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.

“In this matter, I accept my share of responsibility. However, looking forward, my lack of confidence in him would not contribute to maintaining the necessary atmosphere of cordiality.” 

The falling out between Coach Domenico Tedesco and Thibaut Courtois became evident during Belgium's Euro 2024 qualifier camp. 

Federation Accepts Thibaut's Position 

In his social media message, Courtois also added how he had spoken to the Belgium FA and they were accepting of his position to not play under Domenico Tedesco. 

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"The Federation, with whom I have had several discussions, accepts my position and the reasons that led me to this painful but coherent decision. 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," said Courtois in his social media post. 

Questions were raised against Tedesco during the Euro 2024 tournament after Belgium made an early exit during the Round of 16 on whether he was the right man for the job or not.