Courtois: “I have decided not to return to the Belgium National Team under current management”

Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has released a statement about his future in international football, saying that he will continue to stay away from the Belgian National Team as long as they are managed by current coach Domenico Tedesco

This was the full statement that was posted on Courtois’ social media accounts:

“I want to address the Belgian fans and supporters of our national team.

I feel immense love and pride in representing my country on the pitch, as well as every one of you who supports the Red Devils. I feel privileged to have had the honor of wearing the national jersey. Not even in my wildest dreams could I have imagined being able to do so more than 100 times.

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 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.

Thank you for your unwavering support, love, and understanding.”

Courtois did not feature for Belgium during the Euro 2024 tournament despite playing multiple games for Real Madrid leading up to the tournament. Tedesco deemed Courtois “not fit enough”.

There was always clearly a rift that had been formed between the two ever since Courtois was stripped of team captaincy in 2023, calling it a “breach of trust” and claiming that the coach made no efforts to find a solution to the problem.