Thibaut Courtois Set for Belgium Return After Lengthy Absence

Image credits: Photo by Maria Gracia Jimenez/Soccrates/Getty Images

Thibaut Courtois, the Real Madrid goalkeeper, has announced his availability for selection for the Belgium national team again, and he expects to make his return next month. Courtois had refused to play under previous coach Domenico Tedesco, but his firing has cleared the way for the 32-year-old to return to the national side. The goalkeeper had a well-documented fallout with Tedesco, which centered around the captaincy and created a rift that seemed irreparable, ultimately leading to Courtois' self-imposed exile.

Courtois has talked to new coach Rudi Garcia, who expressed his desire to see the goalkeeper back between the posts. Garcia stated that it's a shame not to be able to count on the best goalkeeper in the world. Courtois' last appearance for Belgium came on June 17, 2023, in a European Championship qualifier against Austria. Since then, he has faced a lengthy spell on the sidelines due to a serious knee injury, which kept him out of action for the majority of the 2023-24 club season.

The recovery from his injury, coupled with the resolution of his national team dispute, now sets the stage for his much-anticipated comeback. Belgium is set to meet Ukraine in a two-legged Nations League playoff next month, and Courtois is expected to be part of the squad. The 32-year-old has made it clear that he missed playing for his country and is now ready to return. The return of Courtois will be a massive boost to the Belgium national team, and fans will be eager to see him back in action.

The list of upcoming matches for Belgium includes:

• Belgium vs Ukraine (Nations League playoff)

The return of Courtois will be crucial for Belgium's chances in the Nations League playoff. With his experience and skill, he will be a key player for the team. The national team will be looking to make a strong comeback, and Courtois' return will be a significant step in that direction.

Courtois' decision to return to the national team is a positive development for Belgium, and fans will be excited to see him back in action. The team's chances in the upcoming matches will depend on various factors, including the performance of Courtois and other key players. With Courtois back in the squad, Belgium will be looking to make a strong impression in the Nations League playoff and future tournaments.

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