Real Madrid advances in the Champions League after a dramatic victory against Atlético Madrid in penalties. After the match, controversy quickly followed, especially after Thibaut Courtois's statements about Atlético and their coach, Diego Simeone. The Belgian goalkeeper spared no one, and his reaction caused various opinions, including that of Guti, a former Real Madrid player.
Courtois's Rant
Thibaut Courtois, after Real Madrid's victory, expressed his annoyance over Simeone and his team's complaints about the disallowed Atlético goal. The goalkeeper not only defended the referee's work but also criticized "Cholo" Simeone's game plan.
The Belgian made it clear that he was tired of Atlético's victim mentality and the criticism of referees. "UEFA sees it clearly. I'm tired of this victim mentality," Courtois said, asserting that referees don't favor anyone and that VAR thoroughly reviews plays.
Additionally, Courtois criticized Simeone for his tactical approach. "If you're winning 1-0 and don't try to score the second, that's the mistake," Courtois said, suggesting that Atlético didn't capitalize on their initial advantage.
Simeone's Words That Triggered the Reaction
Diego Simeone's statements about the disallowed goal were the trigger for Courtois's fury. Simeone suggested that VAR should review the goal, pointing out that he had never seen a penalty with such a review.
Simeone also left a rather defeatist reflection. "We competed in an exemplary manner. We couldn't beat Madrid in the Champions League, but they all had a hard time," he said, lamenting another setback against Real Madrid in Europe.
Guti's Response
Amid all this controversy, Guti's reaction was not long in coming. The former Real Madrid player, who has a close relationship with the team and closely follows all the matches, was skeptical of Courtois's rant on El Chiringuito.
With a touch of humor, Guti laughed, alluding to the Belgian goalkeeper's expressions after his statements. For Guti, it seems that Courtois didn't have a good gesture regarding his words, but without downplaying the impact of his comments. It was an ironic response, denoting disbelief at the harshness of Courtois's words.