Courtois challenges Florentino Pérez’s philosophy by revealing talks about renewal with Real Madrid
Veteran goalkeeper says he dreams of retiring at the Bernabéu, but Florentino Pérez’s track record says otherwise
Thibaut Courtois has confirmed that negotiations are underway for a contract renewal with Real Madrid, as the Belgian goalkeeper hopes to extend his stay beyond 2026 and end his career at the Santiago Bernabéu.
In an interview posted by Madrid Xtra on social media platform X, Courtois made it clear that his priority is to remain in Madrid. “My renewal? Negotiations are underway. I want to stay at Real Madrid as long as possible. My dream is to retire at Real Madrid,” said the 33-year-old shot-stopper.
Veteran Still in Top Form After Injury Return
Courtois, who missed much of the 2024–25 season due to a serious injury, is now fully fit and expected to be the club’s first-choice goalkeeper again. Despite his age, his performances remain at the highest level, which has prompted the club to open discussions for an extension that could keep him at the club until at least 2028.
Will Florentino Pérez Break the Pattern?
Courtois’s ambition, however, contrasts with the philosophy of club president Florentino Pérez, who has historically opted not to renew aging stars. Under Pérez’s leadership, Real Madrid has moved on from club legends such as Raúl González, Sergio Ramos, and most recently, Luka Modrić, who left for Milan after his contract expired.
This hardline approach has become a trademark of Pérez’s reign—favoring future planning and sporting merit over sentimentality. In that context, Courtois will need to maintain elite-level performances if he hopes to earn a multi-year renewal and eventually retire in white.
One of the Dressing Room Leaders
Known as one of the vocal leaders in the Real Madrid dressing room, Courtois has been a pillar of consistency since joining the club in 2018. He has made over 250 appearances and was instrumental in the club’s 2022 UEFA Champions League title run.
With Andriy Lunin waiting in the wings and younger options always on the radar, the pressure is on Courtois to justify an extension in a club that rarely shows patience for aging stars.
