Courtois talks Salah, Liverpool, challenge of Anfield, favourite stadium – ‘Like the atmosphere of…’ | OneFootball

Thibaut Courtois recently shared his thoughts on Real Madrid’s upcoming Champions League clash against Liverpool at Anfield.

Speaking on the Real Madrid Play platform, the Belgian goalkeeper highlighted the significance of this decisive encounter in the competition’s fifth round.

As one of the key figures in Real Madrid’s dressing room, Courtois expressed his hope that the team can bounce back strongly following their disappointing loss to Milan at the Santiago Bernabéu last week.

Facing Liverpool

Courtois acknowledged the transformation Liverpool has undergone under their new coach, Arne Slot, after many years with Jurgen Klopp. He described them as a dynamic and offensive side, maintaining their trademark intensity.

“Liverpool is a team with a new coach after many years with Klopp. Now with Arne Slot, it is a very dynamic, offensive team, with the same dynamic,” he began saying.

With a strong pressing game, quick counterattacks, and blistering speed in the attack, Liverpool poses a serious challenge for any opponent.

“With a lot of pressure, a lot of attacks, good counterattacks and a lot of speed up front.”

The challenge of Anfield

Courtois has experience of playing at Anfield. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)

Discussing the venue, Courtois noted the unique advantage Anfield provides to Liverpool. The iconic stadium, known for its passionate atmosphere, could inspire the Reds to perform at their best, especially as they look to settle old scores.

“Playing at Anfield is a plus for them. They will surely be very keen on us because they lost the final in Paris and the round of 16 in 2023. They will want that little revenge and we hope to win,” he said,

Real Madrid’s victories over Liverpool in the 2022 Champions League final and the 2023 round of 16 are likely to fuel Liverpool’s desire for revenge. Despite this, Courtois remains confident in Real Madrid’s ability to secure a win.

Key Liverpool player

Courtois singled out Mohamed Salah as Liverpool’s standout threat. Salah’s ability to influence games and create decisive moments makes him a player that Real Madrid must closely monitor throughout the match.

“Salah is a special player. He makes the difference at Liverpool, he is very good and we will have to keep a close eye on him.”

Memorable stadiums

Courtois loves the atmossphere of San Mames. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

Courtois also spoke about the most impressive stadiums he has played at. In Spain, Athletic Bilbao’s San Mames and Real Betis’ Benito Villamarin stand out for their vibrant atmospheres.

“In Spain, San Mames and Benito Villamarin, there is always a good atmosphere there.”

He also appreciated the energy at Munich’s Allianz Arena, which he experienced for the first time last year. Interestingly, he revealed his desire to one day play at Borussia Dortmund’s Signal Iduna Park, a stadium renowned for its electrifying crowd.

“I also really liked the atmosphere in Munich last year, it was the first time I played there. One stadium I would like to play at and have never been to is Dortmund,” he concluded.