Real Madrid: a twist is emerging for Thibaut Courtois

25.10.26 16:00 LaLiga Spain

Barcelona

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Real Madrid

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Ruled out because of flu a few hours before the Clasico against FC Barcelona, Thibaut Courtois now hopes to join the Real Madrid squad. The Belgian goalkeeper is considering making the trip and could be available for this 10th-matchday La Liga fixture, according to information from The Athletic published on Sunday, October 25, 2026.

Doubt remains over Courtois’s presence in the Real Madrid goal. In the morning, Real Madrid had announced his withdrawal from the squad because of his health. However, the improvement in his condition now gives him hope of taking part in the match.

Read also: Real Madrid: terrible news, Thibaut Courtois ruled out of the Clásico

An undisputed starter since the beginning of the season, the 34-year-old goalkeeper has played in all of the club’s matches so far. His potential absence would force José Mourinho to rely on Andriy Lunin, his usual replacement, who has been at Real Madrid since 2018.

As a precaution, the Madrid club has also included two other goalkeepers in its squad: Illia Voloshyn, from its reserve team, and Sergio Mestre.

Courtois’s presence would be an asset for Real Madrid, which trails FC Barcelona by six points in the standings ahead of this clash. The Belgian, who arrived from Chelsea in the summer of 2018, has won 12 trophies with Los Merengues, including three La Liga titles and two Champions League titles. He also has 98 clean sheets in the Spanish league.

Real Madrid will nevertheless have to cope with the absence of Vinicius Junior, who is suspended for this match. The final decision regarding Courtois will depend on his health and his ability to be fit for the Clasico.

Nouya M'toama

Editorfr, en

Versatile journalist specializing in sports and political news, with extensive experience across radio, print and digital media platforms.

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