Report – Real Madrid veteran set for national team return in March | OneFootball

Thibaut Courtois is on the brink of a return to the Belgian national team after a year and a half away.

In fact, according to Mundo Deportivo, the Real Madrid goalkeeper is expected to feature in Belgium’s match against Ukraine on 3 March in Genk.

The Belgian media has been abuzz with speculation regarding Courtois’ potential return. Discussions have intensified following recent remarks made by the player’s father.

These hints have fueled the belief that Courtois is ready to rejoin the national setup, with his sights set firmly on participating in the 2026 World Cup.

Discussion is ongoing

Courtois’ father confirmed that conversations between the player and the Belgian Football Federation are progressing positively.

He acknowledged the possibility of Courtois returning for the Ukraine match but did not rule out the chance that his comeback might be delayed until the World Cup qualifiers due to a congested schedule.

“Thibaut and the federation are in talks. I think his return is imminent, perhaps against Ukraine. But with the schedule so full, it could also wait until the World Cup qualifiers,” Thierry Courtois, the footballer’s father, said this week.

Thibaut Courtois is likely to return to international duty this year. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)

Belgium’s match against Ukraine, scheduled for 3 March in Genk, is crucial as it represents the second leg of a play-off that will determine Belgium’s standing in Group A of the Nations League.

Courtois’ return would provide a significant boost to the team as they aim to secure their position.

Courtois is keen to return

The situation has taken a promising turn since the appointment of Rudi Garcia as Belgium’s new head coach.

Garcia, who expressed a desire to have Courtois back in the squad during his introductory press conference, appears to be making strides in mending the relationship.

This follows the fallout between Courtois and former coach Domenico Tedesco, which saw the goalkeeper leave the national team in June 2023.

The disagreement reportedly stemmed from Courtois feeling disrespected over the decision regarding the captain’s armband.

All eyes are now on Garcia as he prepares to announce his first squad for the crucial match against Ukraine.

Courtois’ inclusion would not only mark a resolution to past tensions but also signal a renewed commitment to Belgium’s future ambitions on the international stage.