Thibaut Courtois has been integral to the Belgium squad since the 2014 FIFA World Cup. He played almost every important match as a goalkeeper for the team.
An unpleasant change in Belgium’s squad could surprise many spectators watching the Ukraine vs Belgium match. A well-known name and a big player for Belgium, Thibaut Courtois, is not in action.
He has not been selected for this important Euro 2024 game. Courtois is not playing because he was not part of the 26-man squad that traveled to Germany. Koen Casteels has replaced Courtois in the game.
Courtois’ Contributions and Absence
Thibaut Courtois has been a star player for Belgium for the last 12 years. He has played in every important match the team has played. Courtois was ruled out of action during pre-season last year after tearing the ACL in his left knee.
However, he returned to action after recovery and was featured in Real Madrid’s UEFA Champions League final against Borussia Dortmund.
Reason for Exclusion from Belgium Squad
According to the official announcement, Thibaut Courtois was not included in the squad due to fitness reasons. When asked about his selection, the Belgium Football Association’s technical director indicated that he is currently unfit.
He said, “Unfortunately, we’ll play the European Championship without him. So now we no longer have to focus on that. It is the job of the federation to smooth out the wrinkles. That is absolutely a must.”
Vercauteren added, “We never doubted his qualities or that he would not be fit. So we must stop the matter now. Signals have been given that we must respect.”
Rumors and Speculations
However, some rumors and sources also consider the enmity between Courtois and coach Domenico Tedesco a prime reason behind not selecting him. They have certain disagreements regarding the captaincy of the national team.
Courtois’ Past Performances
Thibaut Courtois was Belgium’s starting goalkeeper in the 2014 FIFA World Cup, helping the team reach the quarter-finals. He continued this role at the UEFA Euro 2016, where Belgium again reached the quarter-finals.
In the 2018 FIFA World Cup, Courtois played a crucial role in Belgium’s historic third-place finish, their best-ever performance in the tournament. His outstanding performances earned him the Golden Glove award, recognizing him as the tournament’s best goalkeeper.
Courtois continued to be the first-choice goalkeeper at the UEFA Euro 2020, with Belgium again reaching the quarter-finals.
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