Chelsea’s goalkeeping sensation Thibaut Courtois has revealed the reasons for him turning down the opportunity to train under new manager Jose Mourinho, and rejoining Spanish outfit Atletico Madrid on a season long loan.

Petr Cech has been consistent protecting the Chelsea goal over the past decade, and was also present during Mourinho’s first stint at the club. Reports suggest Mourinho tried to convince Courtois to stay at the club despite the youngster not being guaranteed first team football, but the Belgian had set his mind on another loan spell. This season will see the player complete his third loan spell in a row at Atletico, giving him exposure to the UEFA Champions League.

Mourinho’s squad been replenished with new signings, and to cover up for Courtois’ absence, the Portuguese boss decided to sign goalkeeping stalwart Mark Schwarzer from Fulham. The Australian has been an integral part of Fulham’s starting eleven over the past few seasons, and his age has certainly not got the better of him. This means Mourinho will be depending on Cech to start in as many games as possible, with a few cup matches for Schwarzer.

Courtois’ career at Stamford Bridge began when he was signed from Belgian side Racing Genk in 2011. This was considered a big coup by the Blues officials, as many other elite sides were strong contenders for his signature. Also, this would ensure a safe goalkeeping future for the London based club, with Courtois a potential replacement for Cech. He was immediately loaned to Atletico, and through the season at the Spanish club, he gained the reputation of a top prodigy who was dependable in goal.

March 2013 also saw the Belgian set a club record at Atletico for the most number of minutes without conceding a goal, which was set at 820 minutes. Even though the player has seen several managerial changes at Chelsea since his move in 2011, the club’s ambition and faith in his abilities will keep him at the club for the long term.

According to ESPN, Courtois confirmed his intentions of battling for a first team berth next season.

Courtois explained, “The club and Mourinho wanted me to return already this year,

“The directors also liked the idea of loaning me to a team in the Premier League. But I did not like that option, I feel very good in Madrid and wanted to play in the Champions League with Atletico.

“I have no fear of fighting for a place with Cech,

I am not afraid of anyone. I trust in my ability and I know that Mourinho does not choose players based on status. The proof is that he left [Iker] Casillas on the bench because he believed Diego Lopez was training better.”