Atlético decides not to provoke fans. The club removes Thibaut Courtois' commemorative plaque after years of vandalism by supporters
The Belgian goalkeeper's memorial plaque had been repeatedly vandalized by the Colchoneros' fans ever since his controversial move to Real Madrid in 2018. Atlético supporters never forgave Courtois for joining their archrivals, viewing the transfer as a betrayal. The Madrid club's management was eventually forced to take drastic measures.
Details: According to RMC Sport, due to ongoing incidents, the club's management decided to remove the plaque, effectively stripping Courtois of his Atlético legend status. Since his departure, fans have repeatedly torn down the plaque, spat on it, doused it with beer, and scrawled offensive messages—including the word "rata" ("rat").
Courtois' own statements only fueled the fans' anger. Ahead of the 2022 Champions League final, he declared that he was now "on the right side of history," a clear jab referencing Atlético's defeat to Real in the 2014 final.
For the record, Courtois played 154 matches for Atlético, winning the La Liga title before moving to Real Madrid, where he added three more La Liga crowns and two Champions League trophies to his collection.
It's worth noting that this season, the Belgian has featured in 23 matches for the Madrid club, keeping 11 clean sheets.
Reminder: Fenerbahçe could sign Atlético striker Alexander Sørloth.
Steven Perez
Dailysports's expert
