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What happened to Thibaut Courtois? Why Begium goalie left game vs. Spain and who replaced him originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Thibaut Courtois has been an ever-present in Belgium's backline for more than a decade, cementing his status as one of the world's best goalkeepers with the Red Devils.
He was forced from Friday's contest against Spain with an apparent leg issue, exiting the joust after a glint performance that saw him deny a handful of Spanish stars, namely Lamine Yamal.
Here's what you need to know about Courtois' exit, as well as the man that replaced him.
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What happened to Thibaut Courtois?
Courtois was forced to leave Friday's match after suffering an apparent upper leg injury. The world-renowned shot-stopper —who tallied four saves prior to his exit — was in tears upon his dismissal, giving way to Manchester United goalkeeper Senne Lammens.
Who replaced Thibaut Courtois?
Senne Lammens took Courtois' place as the final line of defense in Belgium's backline. There are worst options to go to than the 24-year-old, who enjoyed a solid 2025-26 season as Manchester United's starting net-minder.
MORE: Live player ratings for Spain vs. Belgium quarterfinal game
Who is Senne Lammens?
Lammens came through the academy at Belgian superpower Club Brugge, playing four times for the club before joining fellow Belgian Pro League side Royal Antwerp ahead of the 2023-24 season.
At Antwerp, Lammens emerged as a first-choice-caliber talent, making 44 appearances in all competitions during the 2024-25 season, taking hold of the sticks in favor of veteran Jean Butez.
He was summarily rewarded for his efforts with an £18.1 million move to Manchester United last summer. Lammens made 32 appearances in his maiden season at Old Trafford, earning Premier League Transfer of the Season honors after leading the Red Devils to a Champions League spot. He is widely considered to be Courtois' successor once the Real Madrid star retires from international play.
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