Courtois Unhappy With Chelsea Fans’ Reaction To Move

Thibaut Courtois has revealed his move to Real Madrid was virtually sorted in March and says Chelsea the fans’ reaction has saddened him. The 26-year-old ended his four-year playing stint at Stamford Bridge this summer, penning a six-year deal at the Bernabeu.

The Belgium shot-stopper made 154 appearances for the Blues in all competitions but it was no secret he wanted to move back to the Spanish capital to be with his family, having spent three seasons on loan at Atletico Madrid between 2011 and 2014.

Courtois failed to turn up to Chelsea’s pre-season training, with fans suggesting he was trying to engineer a move to Los Blancos, but the man who started his career with Genk insists that is not the case and he has nothing but respect for the west London club.

“It makes me feel sad. Obviously they don’t know all the truth,” he told reporters. “I think in March the decision was already made and I thought the club would accept it.

“Then because the transfer was close I didn’t show up because I thought it was better not to disturb the squad. I didn’t want it to be toxic.

“Obviously it’s a pity because I love Chelsea. I loved playing there.”