Real Madrid heavyweight intends to end career at Bernabeu | OneFootball

Over the last few years, a number of veteran players have left Real Madrid, such as Karim Benzema, Luka Modric and Dani Carvajal. Of them all, Toni Kroos was the only one to retire at the club, although another heavyweight hopes to do so when he hangs up his boots in the coming years.

Now that he’s 34, the thought of retirement has crept into Thibaut Courtois’ mind, although that is likely still several years away given that he remains one of the best goalkeepers in the world. Real Madrid have been delighted with his contributions over the last eight years, and they can bank on counting him for a while longer.

Courtois, who recently spoke on Jose Mourinho’s return as manager, has revealed this week (via MD) that he intends to retire at Real Madrid, with no plans to change clubs before he ends his playing career.

“For me, Genk is a closed chapter as a player. I think I played a nice year there. Genk have powerful young goalkeepers, so I don’t think as a player I have to go back there. If I can finish my career at Real Madrid, that would be my dream and my goal. We’ll see what happens in the next few years.”

Courtois expects to extend career “by a bit”

Photo by Jurij Kodrun/Getty Images

Courtois was asked when he could retire, and although he admitted that he’s almost past his prime, he expects to be able to play a bit longer than planned.

“As a goalkeeper, I would say that the ideal age is between 29 and 34. I missed a year due to injury and maybe that can extend my career a bit. I feel good, I take care of myself a lot and I am a more complete goalkeeper. Experience also helps. I have many years at Real Madrid behind me, with a lot of pressure and many important games. And that also teaches you a lot.”