Who Did Courtois Replace at Madrid?

By Robert Palmer

Real Madrid is one of the most successful football clubs in the world, and they have had a long line of talented goalkeepers over the years. One of their latest acquisitions in this position is Thibaut Courtois.

But who did Courtois replace at Madrid? Let’s take a closer look.

Keylor Navas

Before Courtois’ arrival, Keylor Navas was Real Madrid’s first-choice goalkeeper. The Costa Rican goalie joined Los Blancos in 2014 from Levante and played an instrumental role in the club’s success during his time at the Bernabeu. He was the starting goalkeeper for three consecutive Champions League triumphs, from 2016 to 2018.

Navas’ performances were crucial to Real Madrid’s success during that period. He made several key saves and kept clean sheets against some of Europe’s best teams. His reflexes, agility, and shot-stopping abilities made him a fan favorite but unfortunately, his time at Real Madrid came to an end with the arrival of Courtois.

Thibaut Courtois

Courtois joined Real Madrid from Chelsea in August 2018 for a reported fee of €35 million. The Belgian goalkeeper had established himself as one of the best goalkeepers in Europe during his time at Atletico Madrid and Chelsea.

Courtois’ height (6’6″), athleticism, and shot-stopping abilities make him an ideal fit for Real Madrid’s style of play. He has been impressive between the sticks for Los Blancos since his arrival and has helped them win several important games with crucial saves.

Why Did Real Madrid Replace Navas With Courtois?

Navas was a fan favorite and played an instrumental role in Real Madrid’s success over the years. However, it is believed that Florentino Perez (Real Madrid’s President) was keen to sign Courtois, who he had been tracking for several years.

Courtois’ arrival also coincided with the departure of Zinedine Zidane (Real Madrid’s coach at that time), and it is believed that the Frenchman preferred Navas over Courtois. However, once Zidane left, Real Madrid signed Courtois, and he became the club’s first-choice goalkeeper.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Thibaut Courtois replaced Keylor Navas as Real Madrid’s first-choice goalkeeper. While Navas was a fan favorite and played an instrumental role in Real Madrid’s success over the years, Florentino Perez was keen to sign Courtois. The Belgian goalkeeper has since established himself as one of the best goalkeepers in Europe and has helped Real Madrid win several crucial games with his impressive performances between the sticks.