Courtois: “We Had to Stop Talking and Start Acting”

Thibaut Courtois delivered a commanding performance in Real Madrid’s 3–0 victory over Athletic Club, and after the match he spoke to Real Madrid TV.

“It was a very important match and a difficult ground,” Courtois said.

“It was important to win after our recent run of form, and we achieved it through teamwork, good pressure, and intensity from the start. That’s what led us to victory,” he explained.

For the Belgian goalkeeper, the match carried a “final-like” weight. “Today was like a final, it’s a tough ground… after Barça’s victory and our draws, obviously you have to win today,” he said. “We played a great game and that’s how we have to keep going.”

Courtois also revealed a shift in mentality within the squad following recent setbacks. “We said we had to stop talking and start acting now, and that’s what we’ve done.

“Everyone wants to contribute to the team’s success.”

Finally, Courtois pushed back on media narratives surrounding the relationship between the squad and the coaching staff. “We’re always on good terms with the manager… There’s a lot of talk from the outside, but it’s not like that inside,” he stated.