French coach Rudi Garcia, the new coach of the Belgium national team, confirmed the return of goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois to the national team after an absence of nearly two years.

Courtois had excluded himself from participating with Belgium under former coach Domenico Tedesco, but his departure opened the door for the veteran goalkeeper's return.

In a statement to the French newspaper "L'Équipe", Garcia said: "I met with Courtois before the Real Madrid and Manchester City match, and I can confirm his return to the national team; it’s great news for Belgium."

Courtois' return is a strong addition to the Belgian national team, which is preparing for upcoming competitions, as the goalkeeper is considered one of the top stars in European football in his position.