Chelsea goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has never really seemed to completely fall in love with the club.
Excellent performances have come and gone over the years and there’s little doubt Courtois is one of the very best, but there’s always seemed a little coldness in the connection.
It may well be because of Petr Cech, the now Arsenal goalkeeper is a Chelsea legend and had to leave the club because of Courtois’ return from Atletico Madrid.
The Belgian international had a great time at Atletico, and speaking to Spanish newspaper Marca he said he feels half Spanish after his time living in the country.
Marca asked Courtois if he’s longing for a return to Spain, and the player replied: “Yes, but not only for the club (Atletico), but how Madrid is and the whole country. From the first minute I fell in love with Spain for its people, lifestyle, food… I still maintain eating dinner and then an afternoon nap, most of the television I see is Spanish… I am half Spanish.”
So the newspaper asked if Courtois fancies a La Liga return, and Courtois confirmed he would: “When I left Spain it was clear that one day I would return there.”
So, when?
“I have a contract at Chelsea for three seasons. In 2018, when I enter the final year of the contract, we will assess whether to renew or leave.”
Courtois is tied to Chelsea until June 2019, it may be considered the 24 year old’s price would drop in the final year.