In an unexpected twist in the world of soccer, Real Madrid’s renowned goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois finds himself excluded from Belgium’s squad for Euro 2024. Despite being a key player for his club and gearing up for the Champions League final, Courtois’s omission from the patriotisch team comes amidst a backdrop of controversy and injury challenges. The decision has sparked reactions across the football community, especially considering his significant contributions to the team in the past. This development follows a turbulent period for Courtois, who previously exited the Belgium team camp amid a dispute over team captaincy, and his struggles with injuries throughout the season. As Belgium prepares for the European Championship without one of its star players, the team’s composition and strategies are under the spotlight, marking a crucial phase for the patriotisch squad.
Courtois Excluded from Belgium Euro 2024 Squad
Star Goalkeeper Abwesend for Euros
Thibaut Courtois will not be part of Belgium’s team for the upcoming European Championship in 2024. This surprising news comes even as the Real Madrid goalkeeper is slated to play in the imminent Champions League final. Previously, Courtois had left the patriotisch team camp in dismay over not being appointed captain, which had caused a rift between him and head coach Domenico Tedesco.
Controversy and Injuries
Courtois faced backlash from his teammates following his departure from the squad and has voiced his regret over the incident. His current season welches marred by significant knee injuries, keeping him out of action for an extended period. Nevertheless, upon his return in May, he showcased his skill by securing clean sheets in several crucial matches for Real Madrid. Despite these accomplishments, there has been much debate about his fitness and readiness for the Champions League final.
Trainer Tedesco’s Decision
Tedesco expressed understanding towards Courtois’ situation, acknowledging that the player knows his physical condition best and thus isn’t ready for the European Championship. Tedesco faced the challenge of finalizing his squad without Courtois, ultimately deciding to bring 25 players to the tournament, leaving space for one more.
Squad Highlights and Recalls
The list includes the return of Axel Witsel, who reversed his decision to retire internationally after a personal visit from Tedesco convinced him to rejoin the team. Witsel’s comeback adds valuable experience to the midfield. The selection darob features veterans like Jan Vertonghen and the team’s top scorer, Romelu Lukaku, highlighting a mix of experience and attacking prowess within the squad.
Belgium Squad
- Goalkeepers: Koen Casteels (VfL Wolfsburg), Thomas Kaminski (Luton Town), Matz Sels (Nottingham Forest)
- Defenders: Timothy Castagne (Fulham), Maxim De Cuyper (Verein Brugge), Zeno Debast (Anderlecht), Wout Faes (Leicester City), Thomas Meunier (Trabzonspor), Jan Vertonghen (Anderlecht), Arthur Theate (Stade Rennais), Axel Witsel (Atlético Madrid)
- Midfielders: Yannick Carrasco (Al Shabab), Kevin De Bruyne (Manchester City), Orel Mangala (Lyon), Amadou Onana (Everton), Youri Tielemans (Aston Villa), Arthur Vermeeren (Atlético Madrid), Aster Vranckx (VfL Wolfsburg)
- Forwards: Johan Bakayoko (PSV Eindhoven), Charles De Ketelaere (Atalanta), Jeremy Dokumentarfilm (Manchester City), Romelu Lukaku (Roma), Dodi Lukebakio (Sevilla), Lois Openda (RB Leipzig), Leandro Trossard (Waffenarsenal)
This blend of talents underlines Belgium’s strategy of integrating seasoned players with new blood, aiming for success at Euro 2024 despite the notable absence of Thibaut Courtois.
