Thibaut Courtois has opened up on several major talking points surrounding Real Madrid’s season, from comparisons between Cristiano Ronaldo and Kylian Mbappé to the team’s internal dynamics under Xabi Alonso. The goalkeeper also addressed his recent knock, the renewed fire in El Clásico.
Cristiano vs Mbappé: Two Different Mentalities
Courtois dismissed direct comparisons between Cristiano Ronaldo and Kylian Mbappé, stressing that the two superstars possess distinct profiles.
He noted that while he has not yet trained alongside Cristiano, the Portuguese legend’s winning mentality is “even stronger” than Mbappé’s.
At the same time, Courtois praised the Frenchman’s evolution this season, saying Mbappé has taken a clear step forward after spending last year adapting to the squad. According to the goalkeeper, Mbappé is growing into a leadership role that becomes more visible with every match.
Injury Update: “Just a Knock”
Addressing concerns in Belgium, Courtois clarified that his recent scare was nothing serious.
He explained that he would have missed last weekend’s fixtures even if league matches had been scheduled, as a precaution, and insisted that he wants to enjoy every chance he gets with the national team. Courtois expressed surprise at the “fuss” caused in Belgium, reaffirming that he never backed out and is on track to play this weekend.
Xabi Alonso’s Approach and the New Locker Room Dynamic
Courtois reflected on the shift from Carlo Ancelotti to Xabi Alonso.
He described Ancelotti as a fatherly figure, while calling Xabi’s approach more modern and equally effective. Courtois dismissed the suggestion that the team misses Ancelotti, saying that would be disrespectful to Xabi.
Inside the dressing room, he described an atmosphere of open communication where issues are discussed directly. While admitting some players may be unhappy about playing time, he stressed that unity remains strong. Courtois also acknowledged that he can impose order when necessary, though the team has not required it this season.
Lamine Yamal and the Spark Behind El Clásico
Turning to Barcelona’s rising star, Courtois praised Lamine Yamal as a player who will be remembered for a long time.
He added, however, that the young winger “stirred things up,” triggering media attention and giving Madrid an emotional spark ahead of El Clásico. After four defeats to Barça last season, Courtois said the team needed “a little fire,” and Lamine’s comments provided exactly that.
Bernabéu’s “Next Dimension” and Madrid’s Tech Leap
Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez confirmed a major alliance with Apple as part of the ongoing transformation of the Santiago Bernabéu.
The club is working on the so-called Infinite Bernabéu project, an immersive Virtual Reality experience designed to bring global fans inside the stadium. According to Pérez, the upcoming VR platform will allow supporters anywhere in the world to feel as though they are watching matches live from inside the Bernabéu.
Asensio on Arda Güler: “A Very High Level Footballer”
Marco Asensio also weighed in on Madrid’s young star Arda Güler, calling him a truly gifted player with exceptional potential.
He believes Güler, still at the very beginning of his career, will reach a much higher level as he continues to develop.
