Thibaut Courtois opens door to Chelsea return after World Cup

Thibaut Courtois

Chelsea goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has suggested that he could return to Stamford Bridge after the upcoming World Cup in Brazil.

The Belgian stopper has spent the past three seasons on loan at Spanish side Atletico Madrid and he has carved out a reputation as one of the best goalkeepers in the world.

He helped Atletico to the La Liga title and the Champions League final this season and he has already said that he does not want to return to Chelsea if he will be a bit-part player.

Speaking to Cuatro he said: “We’ll see what happens, I can’t say right now. First the World Cup.”

When asked about his time in Madrid, Courtois added: !I’m very comfortable here, I love living here, but at times you have to think about the sporting aspect.”

Courtois has already said that he does not feel like he has an emotional connection with Chelsea given that he is yet to play for the London side.

Reports are conflicting on whether or not Courtois will be at Stamford Bridge next season. Current number one Petr Cech is a favourite of Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho and is an important dressing room presence but Cech could still find his Chelsea position under threat.

It seems as if Courtois’ future will be decided after the World Cup, it will be interesting to see if his performances affect Chelsea’s decision.

Only Roma’s Morgan De Sanctis (21) kept more clean sheets than Thibaut Courtois (20) across Europe’s top five leagues this season.