Thibaut Courtois is back in the Belgium squad for this month's Nations League play-off versus Ukraine as furious team-mate quits because of Real Madrid star's recall

"I think it’s a bit strange that Courtois can decide for himself whether he can come back," Casteels said on Belgian podcast MidMid.

Thibaut Courtois' impending return to the Belgium national team has led one of his teammates to step away from international duty in protest. The 31-year-old goalkeeper is expected to make a much-anticipated comeback, seven months after quitting the national team following a public dispute with former manager Domenico Tedesco.

Belgium goalkeeper Koen Casteels has quit the national team in protest at the impending return to the squad of rival Thibaut Courtois.

Belgium's No.1 goalkeeper, Koen Casteels, has made the surprising decision to step away from the national team.

Belgium’s No.1 goalkeeper Koen Casteels has quit the squad over Courtois’ return, leaving the team to face key UEFA fixtures. Discover the full story

Belgium's No.1 goalkeeper Koen Casteels has quit the national team in frustration over the decision to bring Thibaut Courtois back into the fold.

After a public fallout with former manager Domenico Tedesco, the goalkeeper announced in August 2024 that he would not play for his country.

Belgium goalkeeper Koen Casteels has quit the national team in protest at the impending return to the squad of rival Thibaut Courtois.

Thibaut Courtois’ decision to return to Belgium duty has not been met with universal approval in the Red Devils camp.Real Madrid’s No.1 is currently eighth on the all-time list of appearances for