2023 has been an eventful year for Thibaut Courtois. On a personal level, there was a big wedding, but on a sporting level there was nothing to laugh about, with a much-discussed clash with national team coach Domenico Tedesco and a serious knee injury. This injury did not prevent him from winning a cup on the VRT1 program “Peace on Earth.”
Three weeks ago, Thibaut Courtois told his story in detail in Sportza following his much-discussed clash with national team coach Domenico Tedesco. An interview that caused a sensation.
In 'Peace on Earth', the Real Madrid goalkeeper spoke about the stormy second part of his year. “Everyone has an opinion about this and that's allowed. But I think my point of view is not always understood.”
Courtois admits his reaction was a bit emotional when it became clear he was not allowed to wear the captain's armband against Austria. “Maybe I made a bit of a rash decision. But I'm just a human with feelings, not a robot.”
“A lot of people now think that I didn't want to play that match against Estonia anyway, but that's not true. I've already arranged everything so I can return to Madrid from there.”
However, he will not be present at the European Championship. Not because of his disagreement with the national team coach, but because of his injury. He added: “Even if I keep a match with Real Madrid at the end of the season, that does not mean that I will be 100% ready for the European Championship.”
“But I'll watch the Belgians' games anyway. I did that too when I was injured. I hope they go as far as they can. 2018 was our best chance of winning the title so far, maybe we can still get close to that now?”
2023 ended badly for Thibaut Courtois due to his injury, but 2024 has already started with a strong push: the Cup! “This will definitely be up my sleeve among all the other accolades.”
Watch below how he won the coveted “Peace on Earth” award or watch the full episode on VRT MAX.
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