It was exactly one year ago that Thibaut Courtois suffered a devastating ACL tear, ahead of Real Madrid’s 2023-24 season.
The Belgian star’s absence was expected to play a seriously detrimental role in the team’s performance during the season, especially considering that he was one of the leaders on the field.
Real Madrid, however, went on to win La Liga and the UEFA Champions League with minimal contribution from Courtois who only returned at the tail end of the season.
Now fully recuperated and ready to roar, he is ready to start the 2024-25 season as a starter under Ancelotti once more.
Speaking to the media recently, the Belgian shot-stopper commented on a plethora of topics ranging from the upcoming UEFA Super Cup to his fitness ahead of the new season.
Commenting on the upcoming clash against Atalanta where Los Blancos will have their first chance to lift silverware this season, he said,
“We will prepare for Atalanta. They are a team that play well, they press all over the pitch. We played against them a few years ago in the Champions League and it was a difficult game.”
“We know it is a difficult game, but we will train to try to win this game. We want to win the title,” he added.
Courtois was then asked about the morale in the dressing room ahead of the special clash, and what kept the men in white going and pushing for more greatness.
“Although we don’t pay much attention to records and with team we have with many young players who are motivated to win titles, I’m sure we will do everything we can to win and that means breaking another record.”
“It’s a good motivation, but the most important thing is to win the title,” he added.
Courtois then went on to praise Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti, calling him one of the greatest of all time.
“I really think he’s one of the best coaches ever, and he’s shown that at all the clubs he’s been at. When he retires he’ll be known as one of the best coaches in history.”
The goalkeeper was then quizzed about his fitness and general sensations ahead of the new campaign to which he replied in the positive.
“I’m fit and ready for next season, the end of last season was good for me. I’m happy with the way I ended a very difficult season, I started this season very well and I hope everything continues like this.”
“I feel good, I have no problems and that’s the most important thing,” he added.
Speaking on his ability to come good under pressure and step up when needed the most, the Belgian credited it to his grassroots training.
“Since I was very young, since my first match at 16, I have always been prepared for the big occasions without feeling nervous or making mistakes.”
“It is normal that anything can happen, but in general I like these moments. I like pressure, I like big challenges,” he remarked.
Source: RMTV