Courtois returns to Belgium squad after 21 months

Thibaut Courtois has been named in Belgium's squad for the Nations League playoffs against Ukraine, marking his return after 21 months. He had been absent due to a disagreement with former coach Domenico Tedesco over the captaincy. Koen Casteels, who was the first-choice goalkeeper during Courtois' absence, has resigned from the national team. Casteels criticized the decision to allow Courtois back, expressing concerns about team values. New coach Rudi Garcia, who took over in January, stated that the team is starting fresh. He has not yet decided on the captaincy, with Courtois, Kevin De Bruyne, and Romelu Lukaku as potential candidates.