Courtois backs Mbappe for Ballon d’Or while warning of Madrid turmoil
Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois told Onda Cero’s Radioestadio Noche that he backs Kylian Mbappe for this year’s Ballon d’Or, praised Jose Mourinho’s evolution, dismissed the derby loss as a self‑inflicted error, and warned the Negreira refereeing scandal while explaining his short‑term pause from Belgium duty during the Nations League.
Backing Mbappe for the Ballon d’Or
Courtois said individual brilliance should dominate the Ballon d’Or criteria, arguing that “the Ballon d’Or should be for who has been the best player in the world this year, not necessarily who won the most trophies”. He added plainly, “For me, it is Mbappe”. The Belgian keeper believes the French forward’s season merits the award above all others.
Courtois highlighted Mbappe’s “extraordinary acceleration”, noting that teammates in the Belgium squad were “amazed by how quickly he goes past players with his speed”. He also praised the striker’s finishing, saying “Then you have his goals”. The goalkeeper’s admiration stems from both pace and goal‑scoring record.
Reflecting on the expectations at Real Madrid, Courtois reminded that “when you join Real Madrid, the goal is to win the Champions League”. He cautioned that the trophy is never guaranteed, pointing to Mbappe’s own pressure as an example of the high standards at the Spanish giants.
Mourinho’s evolution and Real Madrid’s direction
Having worked under Jose Mourinho at Chelsea, Courtois said the Portuguese “is still the Mourinho I knew at Chelsea, but the years change us all”. He described Mourinho as “very direct, gets under your skin and knows how to touch someone’s nerve”. The goalkeeper also sees a calmer public persona in his former boss while acknowledging the relentless internal intensity.
Mbappé rushed for the Ballon d’Or, Courtois stays at Valdebebas
Courtois believes this season will be “the year of change at Real Madrid”, observing that many aspects of the club are shifting. He stressed that “we are hungry to win titles”, echoing the ambition that drives the Spanish outfit.
Derby loss, Negreira scandal and Belgium hiatus
On the recent Madrid derby defeat to Atletico, Courtois insisted “we did not lose because of refereeing. We lost because of our own fault”. He added that “I hope the referee and VAR improve. It wasn’t their best day”. Regarding the Negreira case, he called it “very serious” and said “everyone is waiting for the verdict”.
Explaining his temporary step away from Belgium during the Nations League, Courtois said “I love playing for my national team, but I have to look after myself because I owe everything to Real Madrid”. He confirmed a discussion with Mark van Bommel and affirmed his intention to return for the European Championship qualifiers, stressing the need to protect his career as injuries have begun to surface.
Courtois sacrifices the Nations League for Real Madrid
The interview juxtaposes Courtois’s unwavering commitment to the Spanish club with his candid views on individual awards, managerial influence and off‑field controversies, while also revealing a pragmatic approach to his international future.