**Thibaut Courtois: The Towering Guardian of Real Madrid – Career, Team, and Top 5 Iconic Moments**
## **Introduction**
Thibaut Courtois is one of the most formidable goalkeepers in contemporary sport. Standing at an imposing 6'6", the Belgian shot-stopper has established himself as a significant figure for both club and nation. Known for his exceptional reflexes, authoritative presence, and ability to make important saves in high-pressure circumstances, Courtois has been a cornerstone for Real Madrid, helping them earn several titles.
In this blog article, we’ll explore:
- **Courtois’ professional journey** - **Real Madrid’s squad size and important players** - **The 5 most wonderful moments of his career**
By the end, you’ll understand why Courtois is ranked among the greatest goalkeepers of his time.
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## **Thibaut Courtois’ Career Overview**
### **Early Career & Rise to Prominence**
Born on May 11, 1992, in Bree, Belgium, Courtois began his career at Genk before joining to Chelsea in 2011. However, he was promptly transferred to Atlético Madrid, where he blossomed, winning La Liga (2013-14) and reaching the Champions League final.
### **Chelsea & Real Madrid Stardom**
After returning to Chelsea, he won two Premier League championships before joining Real Madrid in 2018. Since then, he has been vital in their success, including three Champions League titles.
### **International Career**
Courtois has been Belgium’s first-choice goalkeeper for years, playing a major role in their "Golden Generation," including a third-place finish at the 2018 World Cup.
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## **Real Madrid’s Squad: How Many Players Are There?**
As of the 2023-24 season, Real Madrid’s first-team squad consists of **25 players**, including: - **Goalkeepers:** Thibaut Courtois, Andriy Lunin, Kepa Arrizabalaga (on loan) - **Defenders:** Dani Carvajal, Éder Militão, David Alaba, Antonio Rüdiger, Ferland Mendy
- **Midfielders:** Jude Bellingham, Toni Kroos, Luka Modrić, Aurélien Tchouaméni, Eduardo Camavinga, Federico Valverde
- **Forwards:** Vinícius Júnior, Rodrygo, Joselu, Brahim Díaz
Courtois is the uncontested No. 1 when fit, despite competition from Lunin and Kepa.
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## **Top 5 Most Amazing Moments of Thibaut Courtois’ Career**
### **1. Champions League 2022 Final – The Ultimate Masterclass** **Date:** May 28, 2022 **Opponent:** Liverpool FC **Performance:** 9 saves, Man of the Match
Courtois performed one of the best goalkeeping displays in Champions League history. Against a persistent Liverpool onslaught, he produced **nine vital saves**, including an incredible stop against Mohamed Salah. His heroics clinched Real Madrid’s **14th Champions League title**, with Courtois justifiably receiving Man of the Match.
> *"Today I needed to win a final for my career, for all the hard work, to put respect on my name." * – Courtois after the final.
### **2. La Liga Title-Clinching Save vs. Espanyol (2022)** ** Date:** April 30, 2022 ** Opponent:** RCD Espanyol ** Key Moment:** Last-minute save to secure the title
With Real Madrid ahead 4-0, Courtois made a fantastic reaction save in stoppage time to deny Raúl de Tomás. This victory officially clinched the **2021-22 La Liga title**, with Courtois playing a vital part throughout the season.
### **3. Superhuman Display vs. Bayern Munich (2018 UCL Semifinal) ** **Date:** April 25, 2018 **Opponent:** Bayern Munich
** Performance:** 8 saves, clean sheet
While still at Chelsea, Courtois had already shown himself in the Champions League. But his performance for Real Madrid against Bayern in the 2018 quarterfinal was legendary. He made **eight saves**, including a remarkable double stop against Javi Martínez and Franck Ribéry, sealing a 2-1 aggregate triumph.
### **4. World Cup 2018 – Heroics Against Brazil** **Date:** July 6, 2018 **Opponent:** Brazil **Performance:** 9 saves, clean sheet
Courtois was a wall for Belgium in their 2018 World Cup quarterfinal against Brazil. He made **nine saves**, including a sensational fingertip stop to deny Neymar in stoppage time. Belgium triumphed 2-1, advancing to the semifinals.
### **5. 2020 El Clásico - Denying Barcelona Repeatedly** **Date:** March 1, 2020 ** Opponent:** Barcelona
** Key Moment:** Three important stops in a 2-0 win
Courtois was unstoppable in this important Clásico, producing **three game-changing saves** against Lionel Messi and Antoine Griezmann. His effort guaranteed a **2-0 victory**, demonstrating his worth as one of Real Madrid’s most reliable players.
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## **Conclusion: Why Courtois Is Among the Greatest**
Thibaut Courtois has constantly shown himself in the biggest contests. Whether it’s Champions League finals, World Cup confrontations, or El Clásico showdowns, he delivers when it means most. With his towering presence, fast reflexes, and unwavering confidence, he remains one of the top goalkeepers in the world.
As Real Madrid continues to fight for big championships, Courtois will surely be at the center of their success.
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