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Thibaut Courtois’ Commemorative Plaque Vandalised Outside Of Atlético Madrid’s Stadium, He Responds

Thibaut Courtois’ Commemorative Plaque Vandalised Outside Of Atlético Madrid’s Stadium, He Responds

Atlético Madrid fans are not happy with Thibaut Courtois' decision to play for Real Madrid and they have made their feelings clear about it.

Adnan Riaz

Adnan Riaz

Thibaut Courtois' return to Atlético Madrid has already raised tensions with club supporters after a commemorative plaque with his name was damaged.

The 26-year-old Real Madrid 'keeper spent three seasons on loan at the Spanish club (from 2011 to 2014) before he returned to Chelsea.

Courtois received the plaque after he made 100 appearances for Los Rojiblancos, which is featured outside of the Wanda Metropolitano at Gate 13.

However, Diario AS reports that the Atlético faithful are not happy with his decision to play for their city rivals and have 'since scraped, scratched and painted over his name to make it barely legible.'

Ahead of the Madrid derby, Courtois responded to the vandalism of his plaque.

"I don't mind. If that makes them happy, then good for them," he said.

"If they want to throw things at my head, it won't affect me. It's more motivation."

While his plaque was restored, the Spanish newspaper has reported that it has once again been desecrated. This time, however, it has been covered by a large red cross, adverts for brothels and three toy rats.

Diario AS

The Belgium international left Chelsea at the end of last season and completed his move to Los Blancos. Since his transfer, Courtois has made 19 appearances for the club.

Real Madrid are in third place in La Liga and a win would allow them to leapfrog Atlético in the league table.

Earlier in the week, Los Blancos were held to a 1-1 draw against Barcelona at the Camp Nou in the first leg of the Copa del Rey semi-final. However, Gareth Bale did miss an amazing opportunity to score the winner in El Clásico.

Santiago Solari has had an up-and-down relationship with Madrid star Isco, who recently tweeted a message that would not please his manager.

PA

Well, it looks like the Los Blancos boss took notice of what he said and has responded ahead of the Madrid derby.

"A professional footballer has to do his work, which is to train 100 per cent to be ready to play," he explained (via the London Evening Standard).

"In football, you have to work and put all your talent into everything.

"You have to do that in training so you are available to play."

Will Los Blancos retain the Champions League crown this season?

Let us know in the comments.

Featured Image Credit: Diario AS/PA

Topics: Football News, Chelsea, Football, Barcelona, Atletico Madrid, Wanda Metropolitano, Champions League, Thibaut Courtois, Real Madrid, La Liga