Real Madrid veteran affirms his commitment to the club: ‘Goal is to finish my career here’ | OneFootball

Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has once again reaffirmed his long-term commitment to the club, revealing that his biggest ambition is to bring his playing career to an end at the Santiago Bernabeu.

The Belgian international remains one of the most important figures in the Real Madrid squad and, despite already being under contract until 2027, has said that he sees his future tied to Real Madrid.

Courtois has enjoyed a trophy-filled spell since arriving from Chelsea and continues to be regarded as one of the world’s elite goalkeepers. 

Now, the veteran shot-stopper has openly discussed his plans while also reflecting on the journey that influenced his career.

Courtois makes his intentions clear

Questions surrounding Courtois’ long-term future have surfaced in recent months as the goalkeeper enters the latter stages of his career.

However, the Belgian has left little room for doubt regarding his ambitions.

Courtois wants to retire at Real Madrid. (Photo by Jurij Kodrun/Getty Images)

Speaking about his future, Courtois admitted that ending his career at Real Madrid would represent the perfect conclusion to his playing days.

“For me, Genk is a closed chapter as a player. I think I had a great year there. Genk have some promising young goalkeepers, so I don’t think I’ll be returning there as a player. 

“If I can finish my career at Real Madrid, that would be my dream and my goal. We’ll see what happens over the next few years.”

More to the story

Courtois also explained how his years at the Bernabeu have helped elevate his game to another level.

Having experienced Champions League finals, title races and some of football’s highest-pressure occasions, the Belgian believes he is now a more complete goalkeeper than he was earlier in his career.

“As a goalkeeper, I’d say the ideal age is between 29 and 34. I missed a year through injury and perhaps that might extend my career a little. 

“I feel good, I look after myself very well and I’m a more complete goalkeeper. Experience helps too. 

Courtois is Real Madrid’s dressing room leader. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)

“I’ve already spent many years at Real Madrid, dealing with a lot of pressure and playing in many important matches. And that teaches you a lot as well.”

Idols growing up

The Belgian also reflected on the goalkeepers who inspired him growing up, revealing that two legendary names – Iker Casillas and Edwin van der Sar – played a major role in influencing his ambitions.

Looking back on his childhood influences, Courtois explained,

“They were my main role models. My father was a big fan of Preud’homme and often told me what a great goalkeeper he was. 

“I didn’t experience much of his playing days myself, although I have seen videos, and I know he’s one of the best Belgian goalkeepers in history. 

“But I grew up watching Iker and Edwin van der Sar more,” he concluded.