Belgium Football Federation side with national team manager in Thibaut Courtois standoff | OneFootball

Last week, Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois announced that he would not consider a return to the Belgian national team with manager Domenico Tedesco still in charge.

“I have decided not to return to the Belgian national team under this manager. In this matter, I accept my share of responsibility,” the goalkeeper wrote on social media, confirming his decision.

Courtois’ official stance had been anticipated, especially after he opted out of Euro 2024 for the Red Devils for the same reason. Needless to say, the situation within the Belgian National Team is a serious mess.

Belgian Federation Takes Its Stance

As revealed in a recent report by Mundo Deportivo, the Belgian Federation has taken a clear side in the matter, appearing to back the manager despite Courtois’ comments.

Courtois, Tedesco do not see eye to eye. (Photo by VIRGINIE LEFOUR/BELGA MAG/AFP via Getty Images)

The internal crisis has not weakened Tedesco’s position but instead has seemingly strengthened it. He will continue as the manager of the national team until the 2026 FIFA World Cup, as it stands.

It is surprising to see the board support Tedesco to such an extent, especially given Belgium’s disappointing run in the recently concluded European Championship, where they were eliminated as early as the Round of 16.

Yet, it is clear that the manager has the hierarchy’s backing, and as a result, Courtois is unlikely to play for the Belgian National Team anytime soon again.

After all, he will be close to 35 when the next World Cup comes around, which appears to be the earliest opportunity for Tedesco to leave his post.

From Real Madrid’s point of view, however, this is a massive plus, as it means the veteran shot-stopper can now fully focus on club football with deserved rest during international breaks.