Real Madrid hopeful key superstar can return to full fitness after next international break

Real Madrid has been dealt a significant blow ahead of the highly anticipated El Clasico, as goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois is sidelined with a muscular injury. The Belgian shot-stopper, known for his commanding presence and ability to keep opposition attacks at bay, was instrumental in Real Madrid’s recent 5-2 comeback victory against Borussia Dortmund. His five crucial saves early in the game helped prevent Dortmund from extending their lead and kept Los Blancos in the contest.

However, the post-match celebrations were dampened by the news that Courtois had picked up a muscular injury, ruling him out of action for the next two to three weeks. This means the goalkeeper will miss the upcoming El Clasico against Barcelona this weekend, as well as other key fixtures against Valencia, AC Milan, and Osasuna.

According to a recent update from DAZN, Real Madrid is optimistic that Courtois will return to full fitness after the next international break, which concludes in mid-November. The club is hopeful that the 31-year-old will be ready for the clash against Leganes on November 24th, marking his return to competitive action.

Courtois’ absence will undoubtedly be a huge loss for Carlo Ancelotti’s side, given how vital he has been between the posts. His leadership and world-class shot-stopping abilities have made him one of the most reliable players for Los Blancos, and missing him for key matches will be a challenge for the team.The responsibility now falls on Andriy Lunin, Real Madrid’s second-choice goalkeeper, who recently signed a contract extension with the club. Lunin has been impressive when called upon but has only made two appearances this season, stepping in during Courtois’ previous injury. Those performances came against Lille and Villarreal, and he will now face a much sterner test when he lines up against Barcelona’s high-flying attack in El Clasico.

Lunin’s task is daunting, with Barcelona currently in top form, boasting an attack led by Robert Lewandowski and young prodigy Lamine Yamal. The Ukrainian goalkeeper will need to be at his very best to help Real Madrid get a positive result in the most-watched match of the La Liga season.

While the team will miss Courtois’ reassuring presence, Lunin has shown promise, and the club has faith in his abilities. Additionally, Real Madrid’s defense, led by Antonio Rudiger and David Alaba, will need to step up and provide extra protection in the absence of their first-choice goalkeeper.

For Ancelotti and his coaching staff, Courtois’ injury is a blow, but they remain hopeful that his recovery will be swift and that he will be back to his best after the international break. Courtois has dealt with injuries in the past, and his return to fitness will be closely monitored by the club’s medical team to ensure he’s ready to compete at the highest level once again.

As Real Madrid navigates a tough run of fixtures without their star goalkeeper, the next few weeks will test the depth and resilience of the squad.