Thibaut Courtois addressed the media for the first time since the incident at the Metropolitano Stadium against Atletico Madrid.
Despite the weeks that have passed since that event, Courtois was once again asked to reflect on what transpired.
One of the key points he emphasized was his disagreement with Diego Simeone’s comments after the match regarding the need to punish players who provoke.
Courtois acknowledged his respect for Simeone’s viewpoint but firmly stated that they have differing perspectives on what constitutes provocation.
“I respect Simeone’s opinion but I do not share it. We have different ideas about what provocation is but the organisations have already decided and I do not want to talk about it any more,” he said as quoted by Mundo Deportivo.
Defensive reinforcement
Regarding potential defensive signings for the team, Courtois clarified that the decision to reinforce the squad does not rest with the players.
“Whether we need reinforcements or not is not our idea. It is the club that decides and we just play,” he added.
On the technical side of his goalkeeping, Courtois explained his strategy for one-on-one situations with strikers.
He tries to appear as large as possible to put pressure on the attacking player, a technique he has refined over time and one that he believes works effectively.
“I try to make myself as big as possible when a striker gets in front of me. It’s a technique I have pretty well mastered and it works well.”
Team dynamic and Lunin
As for the dynamics within the team, Courtois recognized that changes have occurred, with some players leaving and new ones arriving.
“There is a change in the team. Some players are not here and new players have come and it is difficult to adapt.”
He believes things will improve and that their current situation may not be as dire as it seems. Courtois has communicated with his teammates about this and is committed to working together to enhance their performance.
“I think that things are going to get better and that it is not as bad as it seems. It is something that we have talked about with the players and we are trying to improve it.”
Finally, he spoke about his relationship with fellow goalkeeper Andriy Lunin. Courtois mentioned that he tries to support Lunin as much as possible, as this mutual respect and cooperation benefit both players.
“I try to help Lunin. He makes me better and shows my worth. So do the rest of my teammates.”
He acknowledged that it is not easy for Lunin to adjust when he is not playing regularly, but he believes Lunin is a talented goalkeeper who will continue to contribute positively to the team.
“It’s not easy when you’ve played a lot, but Lunin is a great goalkeeper and I’m sure he’ll continue to help us,” he concluded.