Courtois Refuses to Play for Belgium

Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois announced on Thursday his decision to no longer represent the Belgium national team under the current management of Domenico Tedesco. The 32-year-old, considered one of the top goalkeepers globally, was notably absent from the Belgium squad for Euro 2024, following a fallout with Tedesco last year, which resulted in Koen Casteels taking his place for the tournament. In a heartfelt message shared on social media, Courtois expressed his pride in having represented Belgium over 100 times but cited a lack of confidence in Tedesco as a key reason for his departure. He acknowledged his own responsibility in the situation but emphasized that his return would not foster the necessary atmosphere for the team. Courtois stated that the Belgian Football Association had accepted his decision and the rationale behind it. The goalkeeper expressed regret for potentially disappointing fans but maintained that stepping away was in the best interest of the national team, allowing them to focus on their objectives without the distraction of ongoing debates. Courtois's announcement comes in the wake of criticism surrounding Tedesco's tactics, particularly after Belgium's disappointing exit in the last 16 of the Euros. Tedesco, who began his tenure in February 2023 and extended his contract before the Euros, has faced scrutiny as Belgium, once a top-ranked team, has struggled to replicate past successes under his leadership.