Thibaut Courtois makes Real Madrid history with milestone appearance against Racing: ‘A huge source of pride’

Thibaut Courtois reached another major milestone in his Real Madrid career during the 3-0 victory over Racing Santander, equalling Miguel Angel’s record to become the joint third goalkeeper with the most appearances for the club.

Notably, the Belgian made his 346th appearance for Los Blancos, moving level with the former Real Madrid goalkeeper.

Right now, only Paco Buyo, with 454 appearances, and Iker Casillas, with 725, have featured more times between the posts for the Spanish giants.

As such, Courtois celebrated the achievement by captaining Real Madrid and keeping a clean sheet, having returned to the starting XI after missing the previous weekend’s El Clasico at the Camp Nou because of flu.

Courtois reflects on historic Real Madrid milestone
Speaking to the club’s official media, the 34-year-old described reaching the landmark as a source of immense pride, particularly given his admiration for Casillas during his childhood.

“It’s a huge source of pride. As I’ve always said, when I was a lad I used to watch Iker Casillas and Real Madrid a lot. To be able to play 346 matches for this club, wearing this badge, is an honour.

“I hope there are still plenty more to come; it’s incredible to reach this milestone.

“When I was a child, I never thought I’d end up here, and today to reach this figure, equaling Miguel Angel, as well as wearing the captain’s armband.

“It’s an honour and a source of pride for me,” said Courtois.

Courtois assesses Racing Santander victory
Courtois was pleased with the result but acknowledged that Real Madrid lost some control towards the end of the first half and during the second period.

“We played very well up until the 40th minute. We let our intensity drop a little after that, and they created a few more dangerous chances.

“In the second half, we slowed the pace down too much and they created a few dangerous chances, but we defended well. A clean sheet, a win and three points. Very good,” said Courtois.

He also spoke about the significance of captaining the club, revealing that starting a match with the armband remains a particularly special experience.

“It’s always an honour to wear the armband for the biggest club in the world. Sometimes I get it at the end of the match.

“I think it’s the second time I’ve started as captain, and that’s always nice – it’s a source of pride for me,” he said.

Courtois highlights team spirit ahead of demanding fixtures
The goalkeeper also praised Andriy Lunin for his contribution in the Clasico, highlighting the importance of having both goalkeepers ready to perform when called upon.

“We’re working really well, with intensity, and everyone’s pulling their weight. Take Lunin last week, for example.

“It’s not easy being the second-choice goalkeeper, and he made a brilliant save that won us the Clásico. Everyone is ready to compete and that’s what makes us great as a team.

“And now, on Wednesday and Saturday, we’ve got two intense matches. One in Athens, which is a tricky ground. We want to keep our record intact in the Champions League too.

“And then going to Mestalla is always a tough match. I hope that by 11 o’clock on Saturday we’ll have eight out of eight and can go into the international break as leaders,” he concluded.