- Thibaut Courtois has confirmed he is ready to return to Belgium’s national team after previously refusing call-ups
- The goalkeeper ended his self-imposed absence following the departure of former head coach Domenico Tedesco
- Courtois also revealed his dream five-a-side team, selecting Sergio Ramos, Eden Hazard, Toni Kroos, Karim Benzema, and Vinicius Jr
Thibaut Courtois has made himself available for selection in Belgium’s upcoming matches, ending his self-imposed exile from the national team. The Real Madrid goalkeeper confirmed his decision in an online podcast hosted by former England international Rio Ferdinand, following the departure of former head coach Domenico Tedesco. “I missed to play for Belgium. It’s one year and half, now I am ready” Courtois stated.
🇧🇪 Thibaut Courtois on Koora Break, talking with Rio Ferdinand:
“I missed to play for Belgium… it’s one year and half, now I am ready”.
He is coming back!! 🧤 pic.twitter.com/tYRUeyCpDW
— Absolute Belgian Fans 🇧🇪 (@BelgianFans) February 23, 2025
The 32-year-old has already spoken with new national team manager Rudi Garcia, who previously indicated that discussions had taken place and was hopeful of Courtois’ return. The goalkeeper has not played for Belgium since June 2023 after Tedesco’s decision to appoint another captain.
Belgium will face Ukraine in a two-legged UEFA Nations League playoff next month, aiming to retain their place in the tournament’s top division. During the interview, Courtois also revealed his all-time five-a-side team composed of former and current teammates, selecting Sergio Ramos, Eden Hazard, Toni Kroos, Karim Benzema, and Vinicius Jr.