Thibaut Courtois Aims to Move On from Belgium’s Self-Exile Controversy

Belgium’s goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois conveyed on Tuesday that he had cleared the air regarding his extended absence from the national team with his fellow players and expressed hope that the surrounding controversy from his near two-year hiatus had been put to rest.

Courtois last featured for Belgium in June 2023, when he departed ahead of a European Championship qualifier against Estonia. However, following a coaching change, he has rejoined the squad for the upcoming Nations League playoffs against Ukraine.

The 32-year-old Real Madrid keeper, who has earned 102 caps, clarified that his exit was not related to being overlooked for the captaincy, as was previously claimed, but rather a deterioration in his rapport with former coach Domenico Tedesco, who has since been succeeded by Rudi Garcia.

He admitted that he could have managed his confrontation with Tedesco better and expressed regret for what he termed misunderstandings with his teammates. Nonetheless, he felt there was no path back following the breakdown of his relationship with Tedesco.

At a press conference on Tuesday, Courtois faced a range of queries concerning his prolonged absence, a topic that has sparked divided opinions in Belgium. He maintained a conciliatory tone while affirming his stance. “I am who I am,” he stated.

Upon joining the squad in Belgium, Courtois had discussions with his teammates on Monday.

“There were numerous misunderstandings and half-truths; I had the opportunity to clarify what transpired. The teammates were able to voice their questions,” Courtois explained.

Courtois expresses relief

“I’m relieved that we managed to resolve everything. Clarity has been restored, and we can now look forward. I recognise I made mistakes. I wasn’t mentally prepared to play at that time.”

“After a lengthy season, impulsive reactions can occur, and my response was not wise, failing both the team and the supporters.

“I still believe the football association could have managed things more effectively, but I was also coping with a severe knee injury. I wouldn’t have been ready to participate in the European Championship regardless. Moreover, a relationship’s breakdown with a coach presents its own challenges.”

“Much has been speculated about my departure being tied to not receiving the captain’s armband, but that is simply false. It is the biggest misconception.”

“I comprehend how challenging it was for the supporters during that period. I genuinely hope to be accepted back into their good graces. I realise it won’t be simple, but I urge them to continue supporting the team,” he added.

Youri Tielemans, a teammate from Belgium, who also participated in the press conference, mentioned that it was beneficial for Courtois to clarify the situation.

“The key takeaway is his recognition that some issues negatively affected the group, although he intended no harm,” the midfielder remarked.