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Courtois returned to the Belgian national team after Rudi Garcia replaced Domenico Tedesco. |
Thibaut Courtois was once seen as the one who stirred up trouble during the Belgian national team crisis. But what happened afterward showed that the Real Madrid goalkeeper had reason to stand his ground.
Under Domenico Tedesco, the Belgian national team went through a period of instability. The coach is remembered not only for poor results, but also for clashes with key players. Kevin De Bruyne, Romelu Lukaku , and Courtois all had problems with the former Belgian coach.
The conflict between Tedesco and Courtois was the most serious story. The Real Madrid goalkeeper was accused of faking an injury to leave training camp early, thereby avoiding playing in a match. For a player of Courtois's stature, that accusation was not easily dismissed.
Things reached an irreparable point. Courtois declared he would not play for the Belgian national team as long as Tedesco was in charge. He left the team voluntarily, accepting a period of absence during a sensitive phase of his international career.
At the time, Courtois' decision was highly controversial. However, the Belgian team subsequently failed to show stability under Tedesco. Poor results jeopardized the position of the Italian- German coach, and he eventually had to leave the role.
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The Real Madrid goalkeeper concluded a turbulent period with success with Manchester United at the World Cup. |
Tedesco's departure paved the way for a new era. Rudi Garcia was appointed head coach of the Belgian national team more than a year ago. One of the first things he did was meet with Courtois to persuade the goalkeeper to return to the team.
Courtois didn't take long to provide the answer. He returned, and the presence of the Real Madrid goalkeeper helped the Red Devils regain their composure after a period of significant discord.
Belgium's journey to qualify for the World Cup was far from easy. The team still struggled to get through the transition period. However, Courtois' return means more than just a personnel change. It shows that the Belgian dressing room has regained the necessary stability.
A year after his return, Courtois and the Belgian national team achieved success at the World Cup. What was once seen as a personal rebellion now looks like a timely warning. Courtois didn't turn his back on the Belgian national team. He simply refused to continue in an environment that had lost faith.
At the end of the 2026 World Cup group stage, Belgium secured first place. Courtois' role was outstanding, showcasing excellent form through numerous impressive saves.
Source: https://znews.vn/tuyen-bi-da-dung-voi-courtois-post1663977.html
