BRUSSELS — Belgium’s national football team has been plunged into controversy following the shock resignation of long-standing No.1 goalkeeper Koen Casteels.
The 31-year-old custodian announced his departure from international duty, citing frustration over what he described as the Belgian FA’s preferential treatment of Real Madrid star Thibaut Courtois.
Casteels’ decision comes just days after Courtois rejoined the squad, ending a self-imposed exile that began in June 2023. The return of the 31-year-old Real Madrid keeper, widely regarded as one of the best in the world, was facilitated by newly appointed head coach Rudi Garcia. However, for Casteels, the manner of Courtois’ comeback was a step too far.
“It’s not so much about Thibaut, but more about the association,” Casteels told the Belgian podcast MidMid in a candid interview.
“The way they rolled out the red carpet for him was strange. It felt like Courtois was dictating terms, and that’s not how a team should operate.”
Casteels’ remarks underscore a growing sense of discontent within the Belgian camp as the team prepares for two crucial UEFA Nations League matches against Ukraine later this month.
Courtois’ Return Sparks Division
Thibaut Courtois’ return to the national squad has been anything but smooth. The Real Madrid goalkeeper has not donned the Belgian jersey since a reported fallout with former manager Dominic Tedesco over the national team’s captaincy.
Courtois was said to be unhappy that Romelu Lukaku was handed the armband instead of him during a critical phase of Belgium’s international campaign.
Rudi Garcia, who took over managerial duties following Tedesco’s departure, has made it a priority to bring Courtois back into the fold.
Many within Belgian football view this as a necessary move to stabilize a team in transition, particularly given Courtois’ impressive resume, which includes two Champions League titles and a FIFA Golden Glove.
However, the decision has not been universally welcomed. Casteels, who has been Belgium’s first-choice keeper in Courtois’ absence, believes the FA’s eagerness to reinstate Courtois undermines the integrity of team sport.
“It sends a message that some players are above the rest,” he said. “That’s not a team. That’s a star vehicle.”
Casteels’ departure has left Belgian football supporters divided, with many questioning whether Garcia’s decision might disrupt team cohesion at a time when Belgium’s national squad is undergoing significant tactical and personnel changes.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
