Belgium goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has spoken publicly about his decision to refuse to play for the national team under former coach Domenico Tedesco, saying he has now addressed the issue “in front of the squad” upon his return.
The Real Madrid shot-stopper is set to reclaim his position in goal on Thursday as Belgium faces Ukraine in a Nations League relegation play-off.
Courtois, 32, had a high-profile falling out with Tedesco in June 2023 after being overlooked for the captaincy in a match against Austria.
He described the snub as “insulting” and withdrew from international duty, a move that led to tensions within the Belgian camp. However, under new coach Rudi Garcia, Courtois has been recalled and appears keen to move forward.
“When I arrived at the training centre, it was good to be able to speak in front of the players because a lot of false things have been said,” Courtois told reporters on Tuesday. “Let’s not talk about it anymore. I’m relieved.”
“A Difficult Period Mentally”
Courtois acknowledged that he made mistakes in how he handled the situation, citing a challenging period in his career at the time.
“I was probably going through a difficult period mentally,” he admitted. “I’d had a long, hard season with injuries. I felt there were problems with the coach.”
Despite being one of Belgium’s most experienced players with 102 caps, Courtois felt disrespected by Tedesco, particularly over the lack of communication.
“I didn’t feel any respect,” he said. “The coach never came to see me. I’d never seen that in 16 years. I exploded at that moment because I didn’t understand.”
Belgium has struggled for stability since their disappointing group-stage exit at the 2022 World Cup, which was marred by reported infighting.
The fallout led to the departure of then-coach Roberto Martinez and the eventual appointment of Tedesco. Many members of Belgium’s golden generation, including former captain Eden Hazard, have since retired.
“Belgium Looking to Move On”
Courtois’ absence during Euro 2024 was keenly felt, with Koen Casteels deputizing as Belgium suffered a last-16 elimination at the hands of France. Midfielder Youri Tielemans emphasized that Courtois’ return and the resolution of the dispute could help the squad regain unity.
“This story, which has been making headlines worldwide, has hurt the squad. So it’s good to clear the air,” Tielemans said.
The responsibility now falls on new coach Garcia, who has signed a contract through to the 2026 World Cup, to rebuild the team’s morale and ensure Belgium remains in the Nations League’s top division.
The Frenchman, formerly of Lille and Roma, is looking to rebound from a disappointing tenure at Napoli last season. Belgium will face Ukraine in a high-stakes encounter on Thursday, with Courtois eager to put past controversies behind him and help guide his nation back to form.
