Interviewed by AS a few days before the kick-off of the World Cup (November 20 – December 18), Roberto Martínez, the coach of Belgium, spoke about the upcoming competition as well as the evolution of his group over the years. And for the former midfielder, one thing is clear: Thibaut Courtois deserved the Ballon d’Or.
“Courtois improved on what he did in 2018 (he was the ‘golden glove’ of the World Cup). He was the first goalkeeper I can remember who played such an important role in winning the Champions League. In football we are different when it comes to evaluating outfield players vs goalkeepers, but for me Thibaut deserved the Ballon d’Or. It hadn’t happened since the 1970s, but Courtois’ level of Champions League results made him a unique player.”argued the coach of the Red Devils, he who will have to count on great performances from his doorman if he finally wants to win a major title.
