Belgium goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois stated on Tuesday that he had addressed the circumstances surrounding his prolonged absence from the national team with his teammates and hoped the controversy over his nearly two-year exile was now resolved.

Courtois, 32, has not featured for Belgium since June 2023, when he left the squad ahead of a European Championship qualifier in Estonia. However, following a managerial change, he has returned to the squad for this week’s Nations League play-offs against Ukraine.

The Real Madrid goalkeeper, who boasts 102 international caps, clarified that his departure had nothing to do with being overlooked for the captaincy, contrary to previous reports. Instead, he attributed it to a breakdown in his relationship with former coach Domenico Tedesco, who has since been replaced by Rudi Garcia.

Courtois admitted that he could have handled the situation with Tedesco better and expressed regret over the misunderstandings with his teammates. However, he maintained that reconciliation with Tedesco had become impossible after their relationship deteriorated.

During Tuesday’s press conference, Courtois faced a wave of questions regarding his extended absence, a topic that has divided opinion in Belgium. While adopting a conciliatory tone, he stood firm in his views.

"I am who I am," he asserted.

On Monday, Courtois held discussions with his teammates after rejoining the squad in Belgium.

"There were many misunderstandings and half-truths, so I took the opportunity to explain what really happened. The teammates were able to ask their questions," he said.

"I feel relieved that we had that conversation. Everything is now clear, and we can focus on the future. I acknowledge my mistakes. At that time, I was not mentally 100% ready to play.

"After a long season, you sometimes react impulsively, and that was not the smartest decision on my part. It was not the best thing for the team or the supporters.

"I still believe the football association could have handled the situation better afterwards, but I also suffered a serious knee injury. I would not have been fit to play at the European Championship anyway. And when a relationship with a coach breaks down, it becomes difficult.

"A lot was written about me leaving because I was not given the captain’s armband, but that is simply not true. That is the biggest misinformation.

"I understand that it was difficult for the fans at the time, and I hope they can accept me again. I know it is not easy, but I hope they will support the team," he added.

Belgium midfielder Youri Tielemans, who also spoke at the press conference, welcomed Courtois’ explanations.

"The most important thing is that he recognises how certain things were perceived negatively by the squad. But he also made it clear that he never intended it that way," Tielemans said.