Edwin Kiplagat

updated at April 12, 2023 at 8:18 PM

• Thibaut Courtois has finally opened up on reports that are rifts inside the Belgium camp
• Kevin De Bruyne's remarks about Belgium's World Cup chances caused a stir among fans
• Defender Jan Vertonghen fired back at KDB, who claimed the team was too senior to win

Belgium goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has broken his silence on the widespread rumours that there was a falling out among their players.

Kevin De Bruyne caused a stir when he declared that Belgium will not win the World Cup since they were too old a squad.

Belgium's disappointing 2-0 defeat to Morocco reportedly led to dressing room turmoil in their camp.

Multiple reports indicated that Inter Milan striker was forced to intervene in a squabble between Kevin De Bruyne and Jan Vertonghen. The latter responded to De Bruyne's bizarre comment, seemingly adding fuel to the fire.

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Goal reports that Vertonghen directed a dig towards KDB, who said the team didn't create chances as their forwards were too old.

Fans faulted Courtois for Morocco's first goal, with a free kick from Abdelhamid Sabiri beating him on the near post.

Courtois speaks about the drama

According to the Mirror, Courtois dismissed some but also confirmed others of the reports, stating that whoever leaked information to the media should be expunged from the team.

“The problem is that too many lies are spread. A situation is described that doesn't exist. As a group, we need to avoid that negativity. Everything was clarified yesterday. Everyone has openly expressed their opinion. If we find out who sent this [information to the press], it will be his last day at the national team."

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Captain Eden Hazard also dismissed the leaks, insisting that Belgium are firmly together. They'll need to beat Croatia to have any chance of progressing to the last 16.

They will top the group if Morocco draw or lose against Canada in Group F's other game.

Trouble in paradise

Sports Brief earlier reported on reports emerging that Kevin De Bruyne and Courtois haven't spoken for years despite being long-time teammates.

Head coach Roberto Martinez admitted that there are some issues within the squad, with the Red Devils facing an early exit if they lose to Croatia. His big stars have clashed in the dressing room and have made controversial remarks to the media.

One of the new findings indicates that Kevin de Bruyne and Thibaut Courtois do not speak for private reasons, despite being on the same national side.