Thibaut Courtois hits out at Antonio Conte for decision to remove Eden Hazard against Manchester United

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Andrew Feinberg

White House Correspondent

Thibaut Courtois has hit out at Chelsea manager Antonio Conte over his decision to substitute Eden Hazard during last weekend’s defeat to Manchester United.

The Belgian set up Willian’s opener for the Blues before Romelu Lukaku equalised but was removed with the score balanced at one goal apiece.

Pedro was brought on for Hazard in what appeared to be a tactical move by Conte rather than as a result of an injury but United stole ahead less than three minutes later when Jesse Lingard headed home the winner.

That left Chelsea chasing the game without their main attacking threat which caused Courtois, who has been linked with a move to Real Madrid this summer, to question why that decision was made by Conte.

“I have no explanation for the substitution,” said Courtois. “I did not expect it, but it’s the manager’s choice. He’ll explain it. I can’t look into his head.

“Of course you want players like Eden 90 minutes on the pitch. He can always bring something extra.”