Thibaut Courtois remained in Madrid during the international break and took the opportunity to speak at length about the latest developments surrounding Real Madrid. In an interview with Onda Cero, the Belgian goalkeeper discussed the team’s start to the season, José Mourinho, refereeing decisions, Kylian Mbappé and his decision to temporarily step away from international duty.
Speaking about Real Madrid’s performances so far this season, Courtois believes the team has generally been playing well, although there are still areas that need improvement.
“I think we are playing well. It’s true that against teams that sit deep, we sometimes struggle to create more danger. But when games are more open, we create a lot of chances,” the goalkeeper explained.
According to Courtois, Real Madrid could also have picked up better results had they been more clinical in front of goal. He believes the team should have beaten Real Betis, while the derby defeat against Atlético Madrid was heavily influenced by key incidents during the match.
The Belgian goalkeeper also made his frustration with the refereeing in the derby clear.
“I think the VAR and the referee didn’t have their best day. It’s not easy to see everything on the pitch, but there is an image where the referee is right behind the incident and can see that the leg is high. Fede also tells him that he was hit very hard. For me, maybe he has to think that there was something he didn’t see.”
Courtois also discussed José Mourinho, having previously worked under the Portuguese manager at Chelsea. Twelve years later, he believes Mourinho has evolved as a coach, although many of his defining characteristics remain unchanged.
“As a coach, he is just as good as the one I knew at Chelsea. He may have different ideas because twelve years have passed, football has evolved and he has evolved as a coach as well. Maybe he is a little calmer on a daily basis, but he still puts a lot of pressure on you on the pitch and says things directly to your face, just as he always has.”
Another major topic was Courtois’ decision not to join the Belgium squad during the international break. The goalkeeper stressed that this should not be interpreted as an international retirement.
“I decided to take a break because the club I owe everything to is Real Madrid. I think it’s important to look after yourself and do things properly. I spoke with the national team coach and we agreed that I would stay in Madrid during this break.”
🚨 Thibaut Courtois: “Kylian Mbappé is the Ballon d’Or for me.
— Madrid Xtra (@MadridXtra) September 30, 2026
If you watch him play, what he does… I’ve spoken to players here and in the National Team, everyone was AMAZED by how he goes past players with his speed as if they are not even NOT THERE.
There is also his goals… pic.twitter.com/Y8WOZrdSC3
Courtois nevertheless made it clear that he intends to return to the Belgian national team for future matches and continue helping his country.
Finally, the Real Madrid goalkeeper was asked about the Ballon d’Or, and his choice could not have been clearer: Kylian Mbappé.
For Courtois, the award should primarily recognise the best individual player of the year rather than simply the player who has won the most trophies.
“For me, Mbappé should win it this year. When you watch him play, what he does is incredible. His speed is impressive, and so are his goals.”
It is a strong endorsement from Courtois for his Real Madrid teammate as the race for the Ballon d’Or enters its decisive stage.
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