Belgium coach shocked by Courtois' departure.

Belgium coach Domenico Tedesco was surprised to learn that goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois had suddenly left the Belgian national team's training camp, claiming that his player was not injured.

"I wish I could use Courtois' injury as an excuse, but I can't lie," coach Tedesco replied when asked about the reason the Real Madrid goalkeeper left just one day before Belgium's Euro 2024 qualifying match against Estonia on June 19.

Courtois had previously stated that he left the training camp due to a knee injury, following discussions between Real Madrid and the Belgian national team's medical staff. This was reaffirmed by Courtois' father, who claimed the 31-year-old goalkeeper was allowed to rest because he was unable to play.

But Tedesco refuted Courtois's claims, stating that he had tried to persuade the goalkeeper to stay with the team for two more days but without success. The 37-year-old coach said: "I am extremely disappointed. I always try to protect the players, but Courtois felt insulted. I did everything I could to make Courtois feel that he is recognized because he is the best goalkeeper in the world ."

Courtois and coach Tedesco exchange words during the match against Austria on June 17. Photo: Reuters — Courtois and coach Tedesco exchange words during the match against Austria on June 17. Photo: *Reuters*

According to European media, Courtois clashed with coach Tedesco after not being given the captain's armband in the match against Austria on June 17th. Due to Kevin De Bruyne's absence, Tedesco wanted to rotate the captaincy between Romelu Lukaku and Courtois. The Real Madrid goalkeeper was expected to wear the armband in the away match against Estonia on June 20th. However, Courtois wanted to be given this honor in the match against Austria – to celebrate his 100th game for the "Red Devils".

Besides coach Tedesco, Courtois reportedly lost his temper and clashed with some teammates after the 1-1 draw against Austria. Reserve goalkeeper Matz Sels could start in place of Courtois against Estonia, given that Koen Casteels has been ruled out. Alternatively, coach Tedesco might also give Thomas Kaminski or Arnaud Bodart a chance.

When asked about the possibility of Courtois returning to the national team, coach Tedesco said he could not answer immediately. The Italy coach replaced his predecessor Roberto Martinez in February 2023 on a contract until Euro 2024. In his first three matches under Tedesco, Belgium beat Sweden 3-0, drew 1-1 with Austria in the Euro 2024 qualifiers, and beat Germany 3-2 in a friendly match.

Vy Anh

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