Courtois returns early to Real Madrid training and looks forward to Mourinho reunion

Thibaut Courtois says he has “beautiful memories” of working with Jose Mourinho and has returned to Real Madrid training ahead of schedule to make sure he is fully recovered from injury.

The goalkeeper brought forward his return because he wanted to check his fitness through individual sessions before rejoining the squad. Courtois completed a specialised goalkeeping workout on Sunday and said he was pleased with how he felt.

“I returned to training a little earlier than scheduled because, after the injury, I wanted to make sure that everything was fine by doing individual training,” Courtois told the club’s television channel.

“Today I did a special goalkeeping session and I felt good. I am happy to be back in training.”

Courtois previously worked with Mourinho at Chelsea before the pair later joined Real Madrid. Mourinho is now in charge of the Spanish club, giving the goalkeeper another opportunity to work under the Portuguese manager.

The Belgium international said Mourinho’s demands and emphasis on discipline were important qualities for a team hoping to win trophies.

“Mourinho demands a lot and insists on discipline and putting the group before individuals,” Courtois said. “For me, these are important things to achieve victories.”

“He is a great coach and, as a person, he is very close to the players. He says things as they are, and I like that. I think this is the direction we should take.”

Courtois also recalled the success he enjoyed with Mourinho during their time at Chelsea, where they won the English league together.

“I worked with Mourinho at Chelsea and we won the league together,” he added. “I have beautiful memories with him and I am happy to work under his leadership again. Hopefully, we can work well and enjoy some great years here.”

The goalkeeper said Real Madrid were determined to return to winning ways, with the squad and supporters sharing a strong desire for success.

“We have a lot of enthusiasm and, personally, I want to win trophies,” Courtois said. “It is important for the team, the fans and the club that we return to winning.”

He added that recovering quickly had been a priority after both the World Cup and his injury.

“After the World Cup and the injury, I wanted to regain my fitness quickly, and that is what happened,” he said.

Real Madrid’s La Liga campaign begins with an away match against Espanyol. Courtois warned that the opening period would be demanding, with the start of the league approaching quickly and a series of difficult fixtures expected.

“We have to prepare because the start of the league is approaching quickly and it will be difficult, with strong matches,” he said. “Hopefully, we can start well and finish the month with three wins.”