Chelsea goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has dismissed talk he is looking for a move to Barcelona and expects to be part of the Blues squad for the first time next season.
Courtois has revealed he rejected the chance to battle Petr Cech for the No.1 spot this term and decided to spend a third successive season on loan at Atletico Madrid instead.
The 21-year-old, who has not played for Chelsea since joining from Genk for £7m in 2011, has already established a reputation as one of the best keepers in Europe.
Courtois is focused on playing for Belgium at the World Cup next year and revealed that it was his choice, not Chelsea’s, to go out on loan again.
He said: “The club (Chelsea) and Jose Mourinho wanted me back for this season and also considered the option of sending me out to a team in the Premier League.
"But I was not interested in this option, I feel good in Madrid and wanted to play in the Champions League with Atletico. I was not afraid of fighting for a spot with Petr Cech. I have no fear of anyone, I believe in my qualities.
“I could have gone (back to Chelsea) and it may have worked out perfectly, but then again I may not have been playing and could have risked losing my starting place with the national team. It would have been a risk for the World Cup.
"Next year? I can afford to take more risks. But for now, the important thing for me as a young player is to reach a higher level."
