Being away from the national team hasn’t been easy for Real Madrid’s star goalkeeper.
After the dismissal of Domenico Tedesco, Thibaut Courtois has changed his stance on playing for Belgium. The experienced shot-stopper has now declared that he is ready to represent his country again.
Courtois had been absent from the national team for over a year and a half due to issues with former coach Tedesco. The conflict stemmed from a leadership dispute, as the coach overlooked him for the captaincy. As a result, the Real Madrid goalkeeper hadn’t played for Belgium since June 2023.
However, in January, Belgium sacked Tedesco and appointed Rudi Garcia as the new head coach. This managerial change has paved the way for Courtois’ return, and Garcia has openly expressed his eagerness to have the 32-year-old back in the squad.
If everything goes as planned, Courtois could be seen in Belgium colors as early as next month. In a podcast with former England defender Rio Ferdinand, Courtois confirmed his comeback plans, saying, “I have missed the national team, but now I am ready (to return).”
Belgium will face Ukraine in a two-legged UEFA Nations League playoff in March, where Courtois could make his long-awaited return.
