Thibaut Courtois Quits Belgium National Team
Belgian goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has announced his retirement from the national team, citing a rift with coach Domenico Tedesco.
Courtois made his international debut in October 2011, becoming the youngest goalkeeper to represent Belgium in a 0–0 friendly draw with France.
He has since made 102 appearances for his country, appearing at five major tournaments between 2014 and 2022, making his 100th start in a 0-0 draw with Croatia as Belgium crashed out at the group stage in Qatar.
However, the goalkeeper publicly fell out with Tedesco in 2023 after he left the Belgium camp ahead of Euro 2024 qualifiers amid controversy over not being selected to captain Eden Hazard.
While Tedesco claimed the 32-year-old’s departure was due to him not feeling respected in the team, Courtois denied the claims, citing a knee injury.
And Courtois, who missed most of last season with two knee injuries, was left out of Belgium’s Euro 2024 squad despite returning to fitness for Real Madrid before Tedesco named his tournament party.
“Unfortunately, following the events with the coach and after much reflection, I have decided not to return to the Belgian national team under his management,” he said in a statement on social media.
“In this matter, I accept my share of responsibility. However, looking forward, my lack of confidence in him would not contribute to maintaining the necessary atmosphere of cordiality.
“The Federation, with whom I have had several discussions, accepts my position and the reasons that led me to this painful but coherent decision.
“I regret possibly disappointing some fans, but I am convinced that this is the best course of action for Belgium, as it closes a debate and allows the team to focus on pursuing its goals.”
Belgium’s first game since their round of 16 exit to France at UEFA Euro 2024 will be against Israel in the Nations League.
