Real Madrid News
Former Real Madrid goalkeeper defends Thibaut Courtois amid recent criticism: ‘Earning us a lot of points’
Thibaut Courtois continues to have one of the most important jobs in Real Madrid’s squad, and former goalkeeper Kiko Casilla believes the Belgian is giving the club exactly what it needs: points and composure.
Courtois has faced questions at various stages of his career about whether age could eventually affect his level, but Casilla sees little reason for concern.
Speaking ahead of Real Madrid’s trip to Elche, the former Madrid goalkeeper made it clear that Courtois’ performances should speak for themselves.
“No one can criticise how he’s performing,” Casilla stated, as per MARCA.
Courtois still providing Madrid with security
Casilla’s assessment goes beyond saves and statistics, as he believes Courtois’ biggest contribution is the calm he gives the team behind him.
“He’s someone who’s earning us a lot of points and bringing a real sense of calm.”
That sense of security could be especially valuable during a season in which Real Madrid are expected to compete for major honours on several fronts.
Casilla also pointed to Andriy Lunin, suggesting the club can rely on both of its senior goalkeepers.
Casilla knows the Madrid pressure first-hand
Casilla experienced that reality himself and says the expectations begin long before a player establishes himself at the Santiago Bernabéu.
“Since I was 14, I’ve been lucky enough to know what that entails,” he explained.
The pressure only intensifies once a player becomes part of the senior side, particularly in front of the home crowd.
“When you pull on the first-team shirt, and particularly at the Bernabeu, it’s very demanding – you really feel it.”
That environment can make even positive results feel uncomfortable. Casilla recalled occasions when Madrid could be two goals ahead and still hear the familiar murmurs from the stands.
For Casilla, learning to live with that atmosphere is part of being a Madrid player rather than something that should be viewed as an unusual burden.
“You have to know how to handle it, and I think any player at Real Madrid is aware of those expectations and is used to them,” he concluded.
Real Madrid News
Real Madrid superstar returns from the break in top form after stellar displays with national team
Jude Bellingham has been undisputedly one of the star performers in the UEFA Nations League so far, in this international break.
Bellingham started with a valiant effort in the defeat to Spain, before starring in the 7-0 win over Croatia. Last night, he was on fire once again, helping England secure a 3-0 victory over Czechia.
As club football resumes this weekend, it is fair to say that Bellingham will be one of the most in-form players at Real Madrid.
Bellingham on fire
Bellingham’s spectacular form has continued throughout the international break, with the midfielder registering one goal and four assists in four matches for England.
The standout display came against Croatia, where he produced a goal and three assists in the emphatic 7-0 win.
He made England history with that four-goal contribution, creating five chances and completing four dribbles while boasting a 100 percent pass accuracy.
Against Spain, he was comfortably England’s best player, assisting Anthony Gordon’s opener and leading the attacks.
In the final game against the Czech Republic, it was Harry Kane who stole the show with a brace on his record-equalling 125th cap, but Bellingham once again started as an undisputed figure in Tuchel’s side.
The Englishman has shown no signs of his form being a mirage, having rediscovered his best since being handed a free attacking role.
A key figure for Real Madrid
Bellingham’s resurgence is a hugely positive sign for Real Madrid, who have struggled for consistency this season.
Operating as a number 10 with freedom to roam, the 22-year-old has already scored three goals for the club, making him the second-highest scorer behind Kylian Mbappe, while also leading the team for assists.
His current scoring rate of one every 206 minutes is not far off his brilliant debut campaign.
That form has drawn widespread praise, with Roy Keane tipping him to become one of the greatest of all time, while Jermaine Defoe backed him to become England’s next captain.
For Jose Mourinho, having Bellingham firing on all cylinders is a massive boost. With a demanding run of fixtures ahead, including El Clasico, the Englishman’s leadership and quality could prove decisive as Real Madrid look to close the gap on Barcelona.
