Thibaut Courtois, the Belgian goalkeeper, has reportedly failed to report for Belgium’s training session after being overlooked for the captaincy.
In the absence of regular captain Kevin De Bruyne, Romelu Lukaku was given the armband for the match against Austria.
However, coach Domenico Tedesco had planned to make Courtois the captain for the upcoming game against Estonia, but this plan is now in doubt.
According to reports from Het Nieuwsblad, Courtois was furious about being snubbed for the captaincy and chose not to join the team at their hotel as they prepared for the next Euro 2024 qualifier.
Tedesco acknowledged the importance of Courtois to the team, expressing his appreciation for the goalkeeper.
He stated that he had a conversation with both Lukaku and Courtois about sharing the captaincy, with Lukaku taking the role against Austria and Courtois expected to have it against Estonia.
The coach emphasized the significance of Courtois feeling valued within the team.
This incident comes shortly after Courtois reached the milestone of 100 caps for Belgium, receiving a commemorative trophy and a gift from his fiancée, Mishel Gerzig, in recognition of the achievement.
Despite the recent disagreement, Courtois had previously expressed his respect for Lukaku, even supporting him in the Champions League final against fellow countryman De Bruyne.
Belgium managed to avoid defeat against Austria, with Lukaku scoring a crucial equalizer in the second half.
What really happened?
After the match, Courtois was seen expressing his dissatisfaction with some of his teammates. It is reported that Courtois is currently nursing an injury, which might open the opportunity for backup goalkeeper Matz Sels to replace him.
Thomas Kaminski and Arnaud Bodart are also in contention for the position.
Belgium’s so-called “Golden Generation” has faced scrutiny and criticism due to their inability to win major international tournaments.
Following their disappointing performance at the World Cup, manager Roberto Martinez departed from his role, prompting a reassessment of the team’s prospects.
With several key players approaching the twilight of their careers, the pressure is mounting for Belgium to achieve success on the international stage before their window of opportunity closes.