Courtois was one of the key players at Balaídos thanks to his saves, which contributed to our team's victory against Celta. After the match, he said: “It’s very important to win, especially on the birthday of our great club. A great joy for all the fans. It wasn’t an easy match. They played with 11 behind the ball, they wanted to defend, and it was a bit tough for us. We started the match well with that goal, the shot off the post, and some attempts. Then they got a bit more into the game. The goal we conceded was a shame, but in the second half, we wanted to win more than they did. In the end, we had a bit of luck with the post and the deflected goal. But I think we deserved it.”

Joy after Valverde’s goal
“I went crazy, I ran out to celebrate it. It hasn’t been an easy week, and we knew we had to respond today. It’s a good victory to stay in the fight and to gain confidence for Wednesday. Today we had 10 players out, and we have to show that we are fighting for this team. The academy players came in very well, and I congratulate them because it’s easy to come in as an academy player when everything is going well, and you’re winning. It’s much harder in moments like today, and they showed personality on the pitch. That’s what’s important.”

Personal moment
“I feel very good. I’m happy because after the knee surgery, I kept training very well. I do a lot of gym work to stay quick, explosive, and in good shape. Aside from having a bad day here and there, I knock on wood for not being injured this year. That says a lot about the work I do every day, and that’s why I’m happy.”

Match against City
“We need the team to be incredibly intense and focused. We know it’s important to win this match, and we need the fans to be with us from the very first minute. They did it against Benfica, and I’m sure it can be a great night at the Bernabéu. It will be important to be at 200%, both us and the fans, and I’m confident we will win.”