Real Madrid breaks the rules for Courtois

At 33, Courtois should be entering the "yearly review" phase according to Real's traditional policy with players over 30.

It's not just a contract extension - it's a bold commitment to stability, class and loyalty that's rare in modern football .

At 33, Courtois should be entering the "reviewed yearly" phase according to Real's traditional policy with players over 30. But he is not an ordinary person.

After an ACL injury that seemed to have ruined the entire 2023/24 season, Courtois returned and played as if he had never left the goal. It was still that same courage, that same reflexes, and that demeanor that made the entire front line even more solid.

That's why Real is willing to break the rules: offer a two-year extension, keeping Courtois until 2028 - until he turns 36. A decision that is not only professional, but also a message: Real Madrid chooses to trust the person who has accompanied them through historic moments.

There was a time when Joan García’s name came up in internal meetings at the Bernabeu. Young, cheap (25 million euros), full of potential – he seemed like the right piece for a long-term future. But that future has not yet arrived. For now, Real are still living in the “Courtois era”.

Joan knew it. He felt it was impossible to take Courtois’ place at Real. So, even an official move was not forthcoming. Courtois did not win by his class - but by the absolute trust of the board and the dressing room.

By renewing with Courtois, Real not only buys three more years of stability, but also retains part of their own identity during the generational transition period.

Since arriving at Madrid in 2018, Courtois has played 282 games, winning every club trophy a goalkeeper could dream of. If he continues at this rate, he will move into the top 20 players with the most appearances in the history of the royal club.

But for Courtois, that number has never been the end of the world. He always plays like the Champions League final is tomorrow - and perhaps that is what makes him great.

Real Madrid know that a world-class goalkeeper, committed, understands the club's philosophy and still has the desire - is invaluable. By renewing Courtois, Real not only buys three more years of stability, but also retains a part of their own identity during the generational transition.

From 2018 to 2028 - ten years, not just a number. It is the affirmation of an icon, and Real Madrid are letting Courtois write that glorious final chapter.

Source: https://znews.vn/real-madrid-pha-le-vi-courtois-post1561932.html