Celebrating my 500th match

Tomorrow, I'll celebrate my 500th match as a goalkeeper.

Time flies. It has only been 11 years since I started my career as a professional goalkeeper. During those years, I got to play for the best clubs in the world, including the Red Devils and Real Madrid. Let’s take a step back to look back on 500 matches.

Starting as a young goalkeeper at KRC Genk, I got to experience what it feels like to become National Champions. I learned how to stay calm under pressure and grew as a goalkeeper thanks to people who saw my talent and believed that I could achieve my greatest goals.

When Chelsea spotted my potential, things started to move in third gear. Through them, I got the chance to play for Atlético. There, I was given the number 13, which I’m still wearing today. Winning La Liga, the Copa del Rey, The UEFA Europa League and Supercup with our team was more than I could ever ask for. I learned to keep pushing: improving day by day, match by match.

I’m grateful for the chances that both Chelsea and Atlético offered me, allowing me to improve my game. Moving to another country away from my family and friends was hard at first, but it’s something I had to do to get to where I am today. With the FA Cup, the Football League, and two Premier Leagues won with Chelsea, we achieved great things together.

Today, I’m proud to represent the Red Devils and Real Madrid. Even though the games were postponed, we’re determined to finish the season strong and hopefully come out on top.

Thibaut.