Belgian Goalkeeper Koen Casteels Steps Down Amid Courtois Return Controversy

Belgian goalkeeper Koen Casteels has quit the national team following the return of Thibaut Courtois. Casteels, who was first choice for the past 18 months, criticized the team's decision to welcome back Courtois after his previous refusal to play under the former coach due to a captaincy dispute.

In a surprising move, Belgian goalkeeper Koen Casteels has stepped down from the national team amid controversy sparked by the return of rival Thibaut Courtois. Casteels, a stalwart between the posts for the past 18 months, expressed dissatisfaction with the Belgian Football Association's decision to reintegrate Courtois after his absence.

Courtois, who had previously refused to play under former coach Domenico Tedesco due to a captaincy disagreement, is now being welcomed back by new coach Rudi Garcia. This development caught Casteels off guard, prompting him to voice his concerns on a Belgian podcast, criticizing the association's inconsistent standards.

The 32-year-old Courtois, with his impressive record of 102 caps, is eager to return. However, for Casteels, the decision signifies a betrayal of team values, leading to his unexpected resignation from the Belgian national team.

(With inputs from agencies.)