Real Madrid superstar heaps surprise praise on Diego Simeone | OneFootball

Thibaut Courtois has always been a divisive figure among Atletico Madrid fans. Having once been a hero at the club, the Belgian shot-stopper saw his relationship with the Rojiblancos faithful sour after his controversial move to city rivals Real Madrid.

Unlike other former players who are fondly remembered by the Atleti supporters, Courtois has remained a source of contention, with some viewing his switch to Los Blancos as an act of betrayal.

However, Courtois has raised a few eyebrows with his surprise praise for Simeone, in a recent interview on Rio Ferdinand’s podcast.

Courtois heaps praise on Simeone

During the podcast, Courtois candidly spoke about his time at Atletico Madrid and his relationship with Simeone.

“How does he create that atmosphere? He brings the energy through his character, he talks a lot with the team. I remember that before a final against Madrid, I think Atleti hadn’t beaten Madrid for about twelve years,” Courtois revealed (h/t AS).

“I had a one-on-one talk with him and with Mono Burgos, and he would tell you: ‘You are the best, tomorrow you’re going to crush it!’ And you’d go to bed like. Buah! Thinking about it,” he added.

Courtois fondly looks back at his time at Atleti (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)

Despite his status as Real Madrid’s number one goalkeeper, Courtois openly spoke about the importance of his time at Atletico Madrid.

“It was the best decision I have ever made in my life. When Simeone arrived in the winter (of 2011) suddenly we defended better, we kept six clean sheets,” recalled Courtois.

The Belgian had spent three seasons on loan from Chelsea at Atletico Madrid between 2011 and 2014, before eventually returning to Stamford Bridge.

The Real Madrid goalkeeper went on to discuss the unique ways in which Simeone prepared his players for crucial matches.

According to Courtois, the Argentine coach had a knack for finding creative ways to motivate his squad, often using cinematic speeches to instill a sense of belief and unity among his players.

“On match day, he would show you a movie clip with a speech – he always found these things that made you bring something extra out of yourself.

“The players performed above their level, and they could do it because tactically, he was also very good. He knew how to activate us. He’s a special coach,” he said.

Finally, Courtois expressed his desire to see Simeone in another country, having already spent almost a decade and a half at Atletico Madrid.

“I think he always finds a way to reinvent himself because he’s been there for many years and is still great. I’d love to see him in another country, but I imagine he’s happy there,” he concluded.

Nevertheless, Simeone will be the last thing in Courtois’ mind tonight as Real Madrid gear up for a crucial encounter against Manchester City, later tonight.