Courtois explodes after Elche draw and fires brutal message at Real Madrid defenders – ‘Don’t mess with me’ | OneFootball

Real Madrid walked away from their 2-2 draw against Elche with a feeling of deep frustration, and one of the players who took the result hardest was Thibaut Courtois. 

The Belgian has been nothing short of exceptional this season, often producing match-saving performances and giving Real Madrid much-needed security at the back. 

For someone who has raised the standard so consistently, conceding twice in a match that the team should have ideally controlled left him visibly annoyed.

After the final whistle, Courtois did not hide his emotions. Instead of quietly accepting the result, he felt the need to speak up and deliver an honest message aimed at his teammates. 

His intention was not to point fingers, but to remind the squad of the demands expected at Real Madrid, especially inside their own box, where decisive actions often determine the outcome of games.

Courtois’ message to the players

Thibaut Courtois sent a warning to his Real Madrid teammates. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Courtois made it clear that the defensive unit must rise to the occasion, and he referenced several of the players who were part of the starting line-up against Elche. 

He highlighted Trent Alexander-Arnold, Dean Huijsen, Alvaro Carreras and Raul Asencio, acknowledging that while the team is full of quality, the group must also show more strength, toughness and determination in crucial defensive situations. 

As reported by Defensa Central, he told his teammates: “We have to go stronger, the 2 goals they scored against us were totally avoidable, don’t mess with me,” a line that perfectly captured his anger and his expectations.

For Real Madrid, the draw served as a warning. Despite dominating spells and controlling possession, moments of fragility still cost them points. 

With the result, the deficit at the top of the La Liga table has already been reduced to just one point and there is simply no margin of error for the team.