Thibaut Courtois today said he would like to return to Spain one day, adding that he will reconsider his future at Chelsea.
The Belgium international has been regularly linked with a move back to La Liga where he spent three years on loan at at Atletico Madrid between 2011-14.
Real Madrid emerged as his most likely destination last summer, but Chelsea are determined to keep the 24-year-old.
“When I injured my knee they (Real Madrid) sent me a fax wishing me a prompt recovery,” he said.
Despite Courtois’ desire to move on from Stamford Bridge, the goalkeeper has praised new Chelsea coach Antonio Conte.
“He always thinks about football and tactically he is very strong,” he said. “He knows what he wants from the team and through videos he ensures that we get his idea.
“With Conte we know that, provided we work, the games will go well. His plan is to play well starting from the back and that suits me.”
He spoke to Spanish newspaper Marca, saying he still feels a strong connection to Spain, where he developed to become one of the best goalkeepers in the world.
“I consider myself half Spanish,” he said. “I miss not just the club [Atletico] but Madrid and the country.
“Since the first minute, I fell in love with Spain — the people, the way of life, the food. I have kept up the late dinners, the siesta, and most of the television I watch is Spanish.
“When I left Spain I had it very clear in my mind that I would return one day.
“I have a contract with Chelsea for three more seasons. In 2018, when I begin my last season, I will have to evaluate if it’s better to renew or to leave.”
Chelsea have made a good start under new manager Antonio Conte and are fifth in the Premier League table after three wins from their first five games.
Despite Courtois’ desire to move on from Stamford Bridge, the goalkeeper says he is enjoying life under new manager Antonio Conte.
“He always thinks about football and tactically he is very strong,” he added. “He knows what he wants from the team and through videos he ensures that we get his idea.
“With Conte we know that, provided we work, the games will go well. His plan is to play well starting from the back and that suits me.”
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