Camavinga ‘relieved’ Real Madrid ace is not playing in Euros ahead of France vs Belgium | OneFootball

This Saturday marks the start of the UEFA Euro 2024 knockout stages, with several Real Madrid stars still vying for the title.

France harbour the most Real Madrid players and they will once again be in action taking on Belgium on Sunday.

Ahead of Les Blues’ Round of 16 clash with Belgium, Eduardo Camavinga addressed the media, answering their questions about the upcoming game.

On Courtois’ absence

Belgium national team manager Domenico Tedesco excluded Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois from their squad for the 2024 Euros, citing his lack of fitness.

While Courtois would have increased Los Blancos’ representation, his omission is seen positively by Camavinga, who will face off against his country soon.

“I’m relieved Courtois is not at the Euros with Belgium because he saves everything,” Camavinga confessed.

Despite sending most of the season out injured, Courtois shone in Real Madrid’s last few games of the season, notably thriving in the Champions League final against Borussia Dortmund.

Courtois is not part of the Belgium squad for Euros. (Photo by INA FASSBENDER/AFP via Getty Images)

On France’s clash with Belgium in 2018

The Real Madrid midfielder also reminisced about the last time these two international heavyweights faced off in a major tournament, highlighting Eden Hazard’s standout performance despite being on the losing side.

“I remember watching France play Belgium at the World Cup in 2018 with my family. I remember Umtiti’s goal, his celebration and a great performance by Eden Hazard,” he said.

A jack of all trades

Over these past few years, Camavinga has grown into a jack of all trades, with his versatility helping both Real Madrid and the French national team plug holes in various positions.

Although the 21-year-old admitted he doesn’t enjoy playing as a left-back, he affirmed he would still do whatever is best for the team.

“I don’t enjoy playing at left back but if I have to play there, I will give everything,” Camavinga remarked.

Drawing similarities between Carlo Ancelotti and Didier Deschamps he said, “Didier Deschamps and Ancelotti are similar. They are very human and give a lot of freedom on the pitch.”

Source: beIN Sports/YouTube