Real Madrid fans are more demanding than Atletico's, says Thibaut Courtois

What's the story?

Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has risked facing the wrath of Rojiblancos fans once again as he recently stated that supporters of Los Blancos are more demanding than those of his former side Atletico Madrid.

In case you didn't know...

The former Chelsea shot-stopper rose to prominence as a loanee at Atletico where he won a La Liga title, a Copa del Rey trophy, and the Europa League. He also won a host of individual prizes like the Ricardo Zamora Trophy for best goalkeeper in La Liga during the stint.

Since his move to Real Madrid last year, however, the Belgian has struggled to justify his insane price tag, drawing criticism from fans and pundits alike.

Courtois is also no stranger to controversy as he recently came under fire for comments he made on Gareth Bale to the media.

The heart of the matter

Courtois has stated that he likes the fact that Real Madrid fans are demanding as opposed to those of their cross-city rivals. According to Marca, he said, "There is more pressure at (Real) Madrid, the fans are more demanding, and I like that."

"You cannot compare one stadium with another, the Bernabeu with the (Vicente) Calderon."

"If you see Valdebebas, you see how great Madrid are, it is the best I have ever seen. Atleti do not have that."

However, Courtois says he still loves reading about his former club and frequently meets ex-teammates Diego Costa and Filipe Luis.

"I love sport and I read a lot of sports journalism as well as things about Atleti. I also meet with Filipe (Luis) and Diego Costa and we talk about things. I carry great memories from Atletico and I am always delighted to see them."

What's next?

Second-placed Atletico Madrid will return to league action when they face Alaves on Saturday night.