Why Thibaut Courtois Refused to Travel to Estonia for Belgium’s Euro 2024 Qualifier
Belgium goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has refused to travel to Estonia for Belgium’s Euro 2024 qualifier, citing his feeling of being “offended” after being overlooked for the captaincy against Austria on Saturday. In the absence of the injured Kevin de Bruyne, striker Romelu Lukaku was handed the armband for the 1-1 draw.
Courtois’ Disappointment and Refusal to Travel
Like Lukaku, Real Madrid goalkeeper Courtois is a vice-captain and was due to lead the side in Tallinn on Tuesday. However, a “disappointed” Courtois left the squad after the Austria match. Belgium head coach Domenico Tedesco said, “Together we decided that Romelu would be captain against Austria and Thibaut tomorrow against Estonia. That was OK for everyone but after the match [Courtois] suddenly wanted to talk to me and said he was going home because he was disappointed and felt offended.”
Tedesco denied Claims of Injury
Earlier on Monday, Courtois’ father was quoted in the Belgian press saying his son had pulled out with a knee injury, but Italian Tedesco – who was appointed in February – dismissed the claims. He said, “I wish I could say it’s an injury but I can’t lie. I always try to protect players but that’s impossible in this situation. I tried to tell him to hold on for two more days.”
Reaction of Teammates
Belgium defender Jan Vertonghen said it was a “sad situation”, adding the “group process” had been “disrupted”. Strasbourg goalkeeper Matz Sels will start against Estonia in Courtois’ place. Belgium are second behind Austria in their qualifying group on four points, but have game in hand over the leaders who have seven points.
Conclusion
It remains to be seen how Belgium will fare in their Euro 2024 qualifier against Estonia without their star goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois. While Courtois’ refusal to travel has caused disruption to the team’s morale, it is clear that he felt strongly about being overlooked for the captaincy against Austria. It is now up to the team to rally together and prove that they can still perform without their star goalkeeper.