Courtois: “I have a different idea of what provocation is”

Thibaut Courtois was elected to speak to the media in Valdebebas to look ahead to Tuesday’s Champions League game between Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund. However, the Belgian goalkeeper recently made the headlines for other reasons. Last month’s Madrid derby at the Metropolitano had to be abandoned in the dying moments due to objects being thrown at the goalkeeper...

You have made 246 appearances for Madrid and won two Champions League with the club. What is the most important thing ahead of big games like this one against Dortmund and how are you approaching it on a personal level?

I’m fine, very happy to have played the other day [against Celta]. The most important thing is being united as a team, sacrificing for each other and giving everything. I think in this new Champions League format, especially after losing to Lille, it’s important that we beat Borussia tomorrow.

Madrid’s defence a cause for concern

A few moments ago, Ancelotti mentioned that he is a little worried about the defence and would like to see more equilibrium at the back, more unity. Do you think it’s a question of being strong physically, tactically or could it also be an attitude issue?

Everyone’s attitude is always the best it can be, we always try to defend as eleven players, as a team but our rivals try to do as much damage as possible, get into dangerous positions and get the ball behind us. Sometimes it’s about communication, when to press and how, and we have to do it as a team. If one player moves forward before the others and another doesn’t follow him, then you leave gaps and in today’s game, that’s where many team can hurt you. That’s what we’re trying to correct in training. Maybe we didn’t do some things well the other day but that’s why we have video sessions with the coach to analyze what went wrong and correct it.

Physically, it’s not easy for a few players who have had a long season and only two or three weeks of rest. Teammates like Fede and Rodrygo who arrive from South America then have two days to get ready to play another game - it’s not easy for them to keep up that rhythm. I think we’ll get there eventually but it’s important to continue winning these games so that we’re in a good position at the end of the season.

What did you think of Simeone’s comments about punishing those who provoke?

I respect your opinion, but I don’t share it. We have a different idea of what provocation is. I don’t want to comment further on that.

Do you think it is appropriate to strengthen the team in the winter market?

I trust the team, the teammates we have. Then the club decides whether we need reinforcements or not. The players don’t get involved in that.

Were you disappointed with anyone at the Metropolitano?

I’m not going to comment further on this matter. I’m concentrating on the match against Dortmund.

Courtois’ views on ultras and violence in football

Should radical supporters be allowed into football stadiums?

The important thing is that there is no violence. I have experienced many situations like this in Belgium. I have no problem with those who support their team and create a bit of rivalry - in fact I like that, it gives me more adrenaline and more desire. But everything should be done with respect for those who are playing and there can be no violence. Sometimes there is a bit of confrontation or words said between a player and a fan, that’s normal. I have no problem with them chanting about me. If there is no violence, I see no problem. We have to eliminate those who want to do harm.

You’re one of the top keepers around for one-on-one situations, how do you prepare?

I don’t want to reveal my secrets either. It’s a technique I try to use: make myself as big as possible, play with timing, guess what the striker is thinking... I’m 6 ft 7 tall, if I spread myself there’s not much space to shoot past me.

How do you see the team? What do you think is missing?

We’ve been through changes, some players are no longer here and sometimes it is a bit difficult to adapt. IWe’re a month or two into the season and things will get better. It is not as bad as you make it out to be. We talked about it, trying to improve it and that is what we try to do.

What’s it like working with Lunin?

I try to help him. He’s someone who makes you a better player, and prove why you have to play. That competition always makes you better. I also try to help Fran, and other goalkeepers who come up from the youth team. I understand that it is not easy, but Lunin is a great goalkeeper and I am sure he will continue to help us.