Thibaut Courtois' decision to return to Belgium's national team has sparked controversy within the Red Devils camp. The Real Madrid goalkeeper, who boasts 102 caps for his country, had temporarily stepped down from international duty in August 2024 following a dispute with former coach Domenico Tedesco.
With Tedesco's departure at the start of 2025, Courtois was rumored to be considering a comeback. New head coach Rudi Garcia has been instrumental in facilitating Courtois' return, and the goalkeeper has responded positively to their talks. Garcia has publicly expressed his delight at Courtois' decision, hailing him as "the best goalkeeper in the world."
However, not everyone is pleased with Courtois' return. Wolfsburg keeper Koen Casteels, who has been deputizing for Courtois, has reacted angrily to the news. Casteels has been performing well for Belgium, but he now faces the prospect of being relegated to a bench role. In a scathing interview on the MIDMID Podcast, Casteels criticized Courtois and announced his retirement from international football.
Casteels' primary grievance lies with the Belgian football association, which he feels has rolled out the red carpet for Courtois' return. He expressed his disappointment at the association's willingness to accommodate Courtois' demands, stating that it "does not fit with the standards and values I have about what a team sport should have."
Casteels' decision to retire from international football has significant implications for Belgium's push to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. With Courtois' return, Casteels would have likely been relegated to a secondary role. Instead, he has chosen to step away from the national team altogether.
The controversy surrounding Courtois' return has cast a shadow over Belgium's preparations for the World Cup qualifiers. While Garcia has welcomed Courtois back into the fold, Casteels' departure has left a sour taste in the mouths of many. As Belgium looks to navigate the challenges ahead, they will need to find a way to heal the rifts within the team and present a united front.
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