Madrid’s European night arrives with Thibaut Courtois focused on Real Madrid, but the Belgium goalkeeper has also disclosed how far his international absence has reached. The 34-year-old says he has been removed from the Belgium players’ WhatsApp group while he takes time away from the national side.
Quick facts
- Courtois asked Belgium for a period away from international football in September.
- He says he was subsequently removed from the squad’s WhatsApp communication group.
- The goalkeeper wants to return after the Nations League and be available for Euro 2028 qualifying.
- Belgium coach Van Bommel indicated a recall was possible, without promising him the starting role.
- Real Madrid host RB Leipzig on Wednesday in the third Champions League matchday, kicking off at 16:00 Brasília time.
Courtois had previously explained that he had spoken with the Belgium coach and requested a break from selection. He remains keen to represent his country again after the Nations League, having played at the most recent World Cup.
The Madrid No. 1 described the practical consequence of that decision in an interview, saying he had been taken out of the players’ chat. He explained that the group is mainly used to circulate details such as training times, with only occasional messages beyond that.
His absence is not intended as a permanent international retirement. Courtois has told Van Bommel that he would be ready to be considered when Belgium begin their Euro 2028 qualifying campaign.
The coach’s response was that a return could be considered, though the goalkeeper would not receive any assurance that he would immediately reclaim the shirt. Courtois said he had never joined up expecting an automatic place, adding that he knows what he can offer the team and does not need a guarantee of selection.
At club level, his position is considerably more settled. Courtois is Real Madrid’s established first-choice goalkeeper and is set to feature when Leipzig arrive in the Spanish capital.
Real go into that Champions League fixture after a 4-1 league victory over Sevilla in the ninth round of the Spanish season, with Courtois now balancing Madrid’s continental campaign against an unresolved route back into Belgium’s squad.
