Thibaut Courtois addresses Belgium national team absence

Thibaut Courtois has addressed his temporary absence from the Belgium national team, stating that his decision is based on managing his physical workload and professional obligations to Real Madrid. While expressing his love for representing his country in major tournaments like the World Cup and European Championship, Courtois noted that he must ensure he remains in peak condition for his club. He specifically mentioned concerns regarding fatigue and previous injuries related to the intensity of the international calendar.

In Courtois's absence, goalkeeper Senne Lammens has stepped into the primary role for the national team. Lammens has performed strongly in recent matches against Italy and France, seeking to establish himself as a key element of the squad under coach Mark van Bommel. Lammens expressed his desire to seize the opportunity provided by the current hierarchy to secure his place within the team.