Debate at the Metropolitano: Does Courtois Deserve His Plaque?
Atlético de Madrid fans are divided over the presence of Thibaut Courtois’ plaque on the ‘Walk of Centennial Players’ at the Metropolitano.
Despite playing 154 games as a Rojiblanco and winning two Zamora trophies during his loan spells from Chelsea between 2011 and 2014, his subsequent signing for Real Madrid and some controversial statements have generated controversy.
Enrique Cerezo defended the club’s attitude, appealing to the greatness of the Colchonero fans and recalling that Courtois should thank Atlético for the years he lived.
However, the goalkeeper’s statements after some derbies, added to his past with Real Madrid, have caused part of the Rojiblanca fans to request the removal of his plaque. Atlético de Madrid established the criterion of 100 official matches to have a presence on the Walk of Legends.
In 2022, the club established a protocol to remove plaques from players who make offensive statements against the club. While Courtois’ has been the most controversial, it is not the only one that has generated rejection.
Those of Hugo Sánchez, Kun Agüero and Griezmann also suffered vandalism at the time. The debate remains open among the fans, who value Courtois’ legacy as a Rojiblanco but do not forgive his subsequent career and his words against the club.
