Thibaut Courtois talks comparisons with Casillas, Rodrygo, Bellingham, Ballon d’Or, players’ strike | OneFootball

Thibaut Courtois stood out as the star player for Real Madrid during their Champions League match against Stuttgart, which ended with a score of 3-1.

The Belgian goalkeeper displayed an incredible performance, acting as an impenetrable barrier against the German team. Stuttgart had up to four clear opportunities to score, but Courtois was always there to deny them.

Although Stuttgart eventually found the back of the net, Courtois’s efforts ensured that Real Madrid did not face defeat. His exceptional skills and timely saves were crucial for the team’s success.

Following this impressive display, Real Madrid fans have begun to engage in a lively debate about Courtois’s place in the club’s history. Many supporters believe that he is the best goalkeeper the club has ever had.

While some may argue in favour of Iker Casillas, who is a club legend, Courtois is rapidly ascending the ranks when it comes to discussions about the finest goalkeepers in Real Madrid’s storied past.

Thibaut Courtois is being compared to Iker Casillas. (Photo by WOJTEK RADWANSKI/AFP via Getty Images)

Comparisons with Casillas are frequent, and Courtois expressed pride in being mentioned alongside the legendary keeper. He emphasised that being compared to someone he admired since childhood is an honour, and he is focused on proving his worth over time.

“Comparisons with Casillas? I’m proud of it. It’s a compliment for the boy who dreamed of being at Real Madrid at 8 years old,” he told El Desmarque.

“We will see where everyone ranks me when I retire,” he added.

On Rodrygo and Bellingham

Recently, there has also been some light-hearted banter within the squad, particularly between Rodrygo and Jude Bellingham, about a playful phrase that sparked some chatter among fans.

Courtois joined in on the fun, joking about the situation while also emphasising the camaraderie within the team.

“And where is the C? (laughs). It’s all from outside, everybody feels valued,” he said.

He also admitted that he expects the Ballon d’Or winner to be his Real Madrid teammate. “Ballon d’Or? Hopefully one of my teammates wins it. They all have merit, but I hope the winner is from Real Madrid.”

Players’ strike

Thibaut Courtois is asking for more rest for the players. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Beyond his on-field heroics, Courtois has been vocal about the challenges players face due to the demanding fixture schedule in football.

He recently highlighted the pressing issue of player fatigue, pointing out that many players returning from international tournaments enjoy only a brief three-week break before starting the next season.

He noted that while other sports, such as basketball, have demanding schedules, players are given substantial rest periods afterwards.

“A possible strike? The complaint is not so much about the games but the lack of rest from one season to the next because those who have reached the final phase of the Euros or Copa America only enjoy 3 weeks of vacation.

“In the NBA they have a demanding schedule, but then they rest for 4-5 months,” he noted.