Belgium Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois Set to Return for Nations League Relegation Playoff Against Ukraine
Background to the Dispute
Belgium goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has been at the center of controversy in the Belgian national team due to a public falling out with former coach Domenico Tedesco. The 32-year-old goalkeeper had refused to play for the national team under Tedesco after not being named captain for a game against Austria in June 2023, saying he felt "insulted".
Courtois’ Return
Courtois is set to return for Belgium on Thursday in a Nations League relegation playoff against Ukraine, after being named in new coach Rudi Garcia’s first squad. Courtois had a public spat with Tedesco, with the goalkeeper saying he was disrespected by the coach, who never came to see him despite his long service to the national team.
Courtois’ Explanation
Courtois explained his decision to refuse to play for the national team under Tedesco, saying he felt "insulted" and disrespected by the coach. In an interview, he stated, "When I arrived (at the training centre), it was good to be able to speak in front of the players because a lot of false things have been said. Let’s not talk about it anymore. I’m relieved. I made mistakes. I was probably going through a difficult period mentally. I’d had a long, hard season (in 2023) with injuries. I felt there were problems with the coach."
Belgium’s Struggle
Belgium have struggled since a group stage exit at the 2022 World Cup, when they were affected by reported infighting, which led to then-coach Roberto Martinez stepping down. Many of the Belgium side which topped the world rankings from 2018 until 2021 have retired, including former skipper Eden Hazard. The Belgians were eliminated from Euro 2024 in the last 16 by France, with Koen Casteels in goal in Courtois’ absence.
Garcia’s Task
Frenchman Rudi Garcia has signed a contract through to the end of next year’s World Cup in the US, Mexico, and Canada. His first task is to keep Belgium in the top flight of the Nations League. It is the former Lille and Roma boss’s first job since a disastrous stint at Napoli last season.
Conclusion
Courtois’ return to the national team is a significant boost for Belgium ahead of their Nations League relegation playoff against Ukraine. The goalkeeper’s public spat with Tedesco has been a major distraction for the team, and his explanation of the situation has helped to clear the air. With Courtois back in the fold, Belgium will be hoping to turn their fortunes around and avoid relegation from the top flight of the Nations League.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why did Thibaut Courtois refuse to play for the national team under Domenico Tedesco?
A: Courtois felt disrespected and insulted by Tedesco, who never came to see him despite his long service to the national team.
Q: Why did Courtois feel disrespected by Tedesco?
A: Courtois felt disrespected because Tedesco never came to see him, despite his 16 years of service to the national team.
Q: What is Rudi Garcia’s task as the new coach of Belgium?
A: Garcia’s first task is to keep Belgium in the top flight of the Nations League.