Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois announced on Thursday via social media that he will not return to the Belgium national team as long as Domenico Tedesco remains the coach.
Courtois, who missed a significant portion of the last season due to two knee injuries, was excluded from Belgium’s Euro 2024 squad despite his role as a starter for Real Madrid in the Champions League final.
“After careful consideration and reflecting on recent events with the coach, I have decided not to rejoin the Belgian national team while he is in charge,” Courtois, who has earned 102 caps for Belgium, shared on Instagram. “I acknowledge my share of responsibility in this situation, but moving forward, I do not believe I can maintain the necessary cordial relationship due to my lack of confidence in him.”
Courtois had a public disagreement with Tedesco in 2023 after leaving the Belgium squad ahead of a Euro 2024 qualifier. The dispute arose when Courtois was not chosen to succeed Eden Hazard as captain. Tedesco claimed Courtois left the camp abruptly due to feeling disrespected within the team. However, Courtois refuted these claims, stating that he left because of a knee issue.
“I have had several discussions with the Belgian Football Federation, and they understand and accept my reasons for this difficult yet consistent decision,” Courtois added. “I regret any disappointment this may cause to the fans, but I believe this is the best step for Belgium, as it puts an end to this debate and allows the team to concentrate on its objectives.”
Belgium was knocked out by France in the round of 16 at Euro 2024, with Koen Casteels, goalkeeper for Al Qadsiah, starting in all four of their matches.
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