Real Madrid goalkeeper Courtois commented on refereeing inconsistencies, Manchester City's alleged rule violations, and the Negreira case, while also sharing his Ballon d'Or pick.

During this international break, Courtois remained at Valdebebas. The Belgian goalkeeper reached an agreement with his national team to be temporarily excused from international duty following the World Cup, allowing him to focus on Real Madrid.

In an interview with Onda Cero, the Belgian player discussed the club's current situation and several other topics.

Regarding refereeing inconsistencies, he stated: "I don't think there's any manipulation involved; I'm not that paranoid. Some fouls are called on other pitches, but they don't call them for us; on the contrary, they often call fouls against us."

He continued: "There are some things that make you wonder... I don't understand, they come to explain some things to us, but the very next week they do the complete opposite."

Referring to Barcelona's Negreira case, he said: "Everyone is waiting for the verdict in the Negreira case; it's a serious matter."

When asked about his Ballon d'Or pick, he added: "The award should definitely go to Mbappé; everyone is impressed by his speed and goals. The Ballon d'Or should be given to the best player, not necessarily the one who wins the most trophies. By that logic, Carvajal should have won the award two years ago."

As for his main contenders, Courtois continued: "I really admire Raphinha; he is very important to his team, scores many goals, and perhaps doesn't get the recognition he deserves. We must contain him in the Clásico."

Courtois also commented on Manchester City's alleged rule violations: "What Manchester City did ultimately damaged the competition; perhaps they wouldn't have been able to sign some of the players they have..."

He then spoke about his family, saying: "My son plays in Real Madrid's youth academy as a forward, very much like Mbappé; he also likes being a goalkeeper, but I'd prefer him not to be one, to avoid comparisons."

He also added: "Some fathers think their son is the next Cristiano Ronaldo and then put a lot of pressure on the child... some children even give up football at 16; kids should enjoy themselves on the field."

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