NEW DELHI: Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois was not included in Belgium's Euro 2024 squad announced on Tuesday as he continues to recover full fitness after a season plagued by injury.
The 32-year-old ruptured the cruciate ligament in his left knee last August and later sustained a meniscus injury in March.
Consequently, the former Chelsea shot-stopper only made his return at the beginning of this month, starting in four of Real Madrid's last five La Liga games of the season.
"He was very honest with me," said Belgium coach Domenico Tedesco. "He knows his body. It is one thing to play three or four matches, but another to play the Euros."
Tedesco added: "He is not ready for the Euros, and we have to play with those who are able to."
The coach will have to choose a number one between Koen Casteels of Wolfsburg, Matz Sels of Nottingham Forest and Thomas Kaminski of Luton Town.
Meanwhile, veteran Atletico Madrid defender and midfielder Axel Witsel was included in the squad at the age of 35.
"We need him. He is experienced and can help the youngsters, whether he plays or not," said Tedesco, who also called up 37-year-old Anderlecht centre-back Jan Vertonghen and 19-year-old Atletico midfielder Arthur Vermeeren.
Belgium, who are in Group E at the Euros along with Slovakia, Romania, and Ukraine, will play friendly matches against Montenegro on June 5 and Luxembourg on June 8 before heading to Germany for the tournament.
Squad:
