No Intentions OutSide Madrid -Thibaut Courtois

I’m not thinking about playing in Belgium again.For me, the Pro League is a closed chapter. Genk also has many good young goalkeepers, so… My goal is to finish my career at Real Madrid.”

The Real Madrid man also spoke about media scrutiny and challenges awaiting Belgium against Iran at the World Cup.

He spoke about the unique demands of the tournament, how important it is to finish at the top, as it would minimise team travels during the course of the competition.

“The TV is on a lot; we watch quite a few World Cup matches. I notice that a lot of goals are scored in the final minutes. Also, that the gap between teams isn’t usually very wide. Everyone wants to do their own thing, but these days every match is a battle. It’ll be the same against Iran. But we want to win, we want to finish first. That way we can stay in Seattle and travel less. We won’t have to be changing hotels and packing all the time. That’s better for the family too. I remember the World Cup in Russia, when we had to travel so much. In the end, it takes its toll. I don’t mind playing at midday. It’s harder with the weather in other places. There’s often more pace in the afternoon matches, but you get used to it.”

He also spoke concerning the role of the media, expressing how excessive involvement and criticism by the press could affect game plans and executions, he is of the opinion that they form major distraction for national teams.

“Before Qatar, there was a lot of unrest surrounding the team, through the press. That doesn’t help the team. We know perfectly well whether it was good or bad. If there isn’t too much criticism during the tournament, all the better. I’d prefer they filled the newspapers with their articles after the tournament. But oh well, they have their job, and that’s respectable. It’s part of the game. Right now, things are still calm here.”

He went on to warn his side, ahead of the up coming clash against Iran in the second match of the group stages. He asked that Iran should not be underestimated by his side. Belgium had drawn against Egypt 1:1 in their opener and has Iran and New Zealand to play for the rest of the group Stage.

Belgium are positive to progress into the knockouts, a four points from tye two remainder games would be enough to seal a spot in the knockouts for the team.