Real Madrid goalkeeper, Thibaut Courtois, has expressed excitement over his anticipated reunion with José Mourinho, who has recently been appointed as manager of Los Blancos.
Courtois, who previously worked under Mourinho at Chelsea, acknowledged that their relationship was not without disagreements but praised the Portuguese coach for his straightforward approach and strong personality, saying their similar traits helped them connect well.
“We had our occasional run-ins, too, of course,” the 34-year-old told reporters.
“For instance, he benched me against Everton because I’d missed two crosses from the flank in the previous match against Aston Villa.
“It was his way of prodding me. The following week, I was back in goal against West Ham and made five or six crucial saves.
“Mourinho is a very direct manager; I am the same. Our relationship has always been very good.
‘Mourinho is a brave coach who never beats around the bush and says exactly what he thinks to your face. I have the same character.
“Perhaps that is why we have always understood each other well, and our relationship has always remained very sincere and strong,’ the Madrid club goalkeeper concluded.
The duo first teamed up at Chelsea during the 2014–2015 season, when Courtois returned from his loan spell at Atlético Madrid and was installed as first-choice goalkeeper by Mourinho.
Their partnership proved highly successful, delivering both the Premier League and League Cup in that campaign.
