EXCLUSIVE: The former Netherlands international sees something of himself in the young Belgian, who has established himself as one of the best shot-stoppers in the agme
Edwin van der Sar is looking forward to this month’s Champions League final as it will pit two “great” goalkeepers against one another: Thibaut Courtois and Iker Casillas.
Courtois has spent three seasons on loan with Atletico Madrid from Chelsea during which time he has developed into one of Europe’s finest custodians, as well as helping the Rojiblancos win the Europa League, the Uefa Super Cup and the Copa del Rey.
Speaking exclusively to Goal, Van der Sar admitted that he has been hugely impressed by the 22-year-old Belgium international, believing that he fully deserves to be bracketed with Real Madrid icon Casillas.
“They are two great goalkeepers,” the 43-year-old Dutchman said of the pair ahead of their May 24 showdown in Lisbon.
“Casillas has won everything with the national team and Real Madrid but Courtois is still very young and has also has won things.
“He has good future for a goalkeeper. He’s tall like me and it is also good to see him in the final.
“I’m going to watch the game in Lisbon and am looking forward to seeing Champions League final.”
The now-retired Van der Sar, who was named Uefa Club Goalkeeper of the Year in 2009, won two Champions League titles, with Ajax and Manchester United, before calling time on his playing career in 2011.