# Thibaut Courtois' Journey Between Atlético de Madrid and Real Madrid CF ## Pre-Professional Career Path Thibaut Courtois began his football career at the early age of 5, when he joined the local club Bilzen V.V. in his hometown of Bree, Belgium. Courtois primarily played as a midfielder, but his exceptional height and agility eventually led to his transition to the goalkeeper position. At the age of 11, Courtois made a significant move to the youth academy of Genk, a renowned club in Belgian football. There, he honed his goalkeeping skills and developed his unique playing style. ## Rise to Prominence at Atlético de Madrid Courtois' professional debut came at the age of 18 when he was loaned to KRC Genk in 2009. His impressive performances quickly caught the attention of Atlético Madrid, who signed him on a five-year deal in 2011. At Atlético, Courtois established himself as one of Europe's top goalkeepers, helping the club win the Copa del Rey in 2013, the La Liga title in 2014, and the UEFA Super Cup in 2012 and 2018. He also played a crucial role in the team's run to the UEFA Champions League final in 2014. ## Transfer to Real Madrid CF In 2018, after seven successful seasons at Atlético Madrid, Courtois made a controversial move to their arch-rivals, Real Madrid CF. The transfer fee was reportedly around €35 million, making Courtois one of the most expensive goalkeepers in history. Courtois has continued to excel at Real Madrid, winning the La Liga title in 2020 and 2022, and the UEFA Champions League in 2022. He has also won the Zamora Trophy, awarded to the goalkeeper with the lowest goals-to-games ratio in La Liga, for three consecutive seasons from 2019 to 2022. ## Courtois' Playing Style Courtois is renowned for his exceptional reflexes, agility, and commanding presence in the goal. He is known for his ability to make spectacular saves, particularly with his feet, and his calmness under pressure. Courtois is also an excellent shot-stopper and is comfortable in one-on-one situations. Additionally, he is known for his accurate distribution and ability to organize his defense. ## International Career Courtois has represented Belgium at various youth levels before making his senior debut in 2011. He has been Belgium's number one goalkeeper since 2014 and has played a pivotal role in the team's success. Courtois was part of the Belgium squad that reached the semi-finals of the 2018 FIFA World Cup and was named the FIFA Golden Glove winner as the tournament's best goalkeeper. He also helped Belgium finish third in the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
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