Major Blow for Real Madrid Ahead of El Clásico as Courtois Ruled Out

Sports Desk

Real Madrid suffered a major setback ahead of their high-voltage ‘El Clasico’ against Barcelona. Belgian star goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois is unable to play in today’s crucial match due to flu.

Real Madrid confirmed the news in an official statement. A statement published on the club’s website said, “Real Madrid will face Barcelona tonight in the tenth round of the Spanish league. However, Thibaut Courtois was withdrawn from the match at the last minute due to flu symptoms.”

Courtois has played 12 games for Real Madrid in all competitions this season, conceding 14 goals and keeping just two clean sheets.

In Courtois’ absence, young Ukrainian goalkeeper Ilya Voloshin has been included in the Real squad. However, another Ukrainian goalkeeper, Andriy Lunin, is in the running to take the starting eleven position against Barcelona.

Barcelona is at the top of the La Liga table with 27 points after 9 matches this season. On the other hand, Real Madrid is in third place in the table with 21 points.