Belgium coach shocked by Courtois leaving the team

Belgium coach Domenico Tedesco was surprised to learn that goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois suddenly left the Belgian national team training camp because he thought his student 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 goalkeeper left just one day before Belgium played Estonia in the Euro 2024 qualifiers on June 19.

Courtois had previously said he had left the camp because of a knee injury, after discussions between Real and Belgium's medical staff. This was confirmed by Courtois' father, who said the 31-year-old goalkeeper was allowed to rest because he was unable to play.

But Tedesco denied Courtois's claims, saying he had tried to convince the goalkeeper to stay with the national team for two more days but failed. The 37-year-old said: "I am extremely disappointed. I always try to protect my players, but Courtois thinks he is being insulted. I did everything I could to make Courtois feel that he is recognised because he is the best goalkeeper in the world."

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

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

Alongside coach Tedesco, Courtois is said to have been angry and clashed with some teammates after the 1-1 draw with Austria. Reserve goalkeeper Matz Sels could start in place of Courtois against Estonia, in the context of Koen Casteels being eliminated. In addition, coach Tedesco could also give Thomas Kaminski or Arnaud Bodart a chance.

Asked about Courtois's return to the national team, Tedesco said he could not immediately answer. The Italian coach replaced his predecessor Roberto Martinez in February 2023 with a contract until the end of Euro 2024. In Tedesco's first three matches, Belgium beat Sweden 3-0, drew 1-1 with Austria in Euro 2024 qualifying and beat Germany 3-2 in a friendly.

Vy Anh

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