Belgium coach explains chat with Real Madrid veteran after Nations League exclusion: ‘If anything happens…’

Thibaut Courtois will not be part of Mark van Bommel's first Belgium squad, with the Real Madrid goalkeeper sitting out the upcoming Nations League fixtures after reaching an agreement with the new national team coach.

Courtois had already made clear that he intended to step away from Belgium's Nations League campaign, prioritising his workload and recovery after a demanding period with Real Madrid.

Van Bommel subsequently travelled to Madrid to discuss the situation directly with the 34-year-old.

The meeting ended with both sides agreeing that Courtois would remain out of the squad for the upcoming fixtures, although Van Bommel has not closed the door on a return.

Van Bommel leaves door open for Courtois

Speaking during the squad announcement (h/t Mundo Deportivo ), Van Bommel explained that the decision followed his conversation with Courtois and stressed that they would remain in contact.

Courtois has not been included in Belgium's squad for the Nations League. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)

"I went to Madrid. We spoke and came to the conclusion that he would sit out the Nations League."

The Belgium coach also acknowledged that circumstances could change, particularly if the squad suffers injuries, while stopping short of promising Courtois a place later in the competition.

"And if anything happens between now and then, we'll stay in touch. We'll see how the situation develops, although I can't guarantee he will play."

Van Bommel was nevertheless unequivocal about Courtois' standing as a goalkeeper. Despite the decision to leave him out, the new coach still regards the Real Madrid star among the elite in world football.

"We don't know how far we'll get in the Nations League. I think you've seen him play too. Thibaut is still among the best in the world," he concluded.

Courtois chooses recovery during international breaks

Courtois voluntarily decided not to play the Nations League matches. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Courtois had previously explained his position when he confirmed that he would not participate in Belgium's Nations League fixtures, including the Final Four, unless the national team faced an exceptional injury crisis.

"I'm not going to play any Nations League matches, not even the Final Four, unless the coach needs me because there are too many injuries," he noted.

The decision is part of a change in how the veteran goalkeeper is managing his international commitments.

After years of representing Belgium, Courtois now wants to use international windows to recover, train and reduce the physical demands placed on him.

As a result, the decision gives him an opportunity to use the international break away from competitive matches and prepare for the remainder of the club season.