Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has a wave of euphoria to ride into El Clasico after an inspired second half comeback against Borussia Dortmund, but it has come at a price. After Rodrygo Goes limped off with a hamstring tear, Thibaut Courtois is also set to miss their Saturday night date with Barcelona.
The Belgian goalkeeper has suffered a muscle injury in his adductor in his left leg, and will not be available against the league leaders, as confirmed by Relevo. Courtois had missed several games earlier in the season through a muscle problem too, and now Andriy Lunin will be called upon by Ancelotti again.
As happened in the Spanish Supercup last season, it looks as if it will be two back-up goalkeepers for El Clasico, with Marc-Andre ter Stegen out long-term. Despite the signing of Wojciech Szczesny, Inaki Pena has played in goal since. At the very least for Ancelotti, Lunin has been tested and proven at the highest level, playing a key role in their league and Champions League double last season, but Courtois will be missed.
His absence, as well as Rodrygo’s injury, are added to Dani Carvajal and David Alaba on the sidelines for Ancelotti. Brahim Diaz is also unlikely to be available, although he did return to training earlier this week.
