Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois is ruled out of Sunday’s El Clásico against Barcelona after the club cites a “flu-like” illness. Multiple outlets report that the decision comes via a Real Madrid statement shortly before the match, leaving the team to consider alternatives for the goalkeeper spot.
While most coverage emphasizes his absence, some reports add that Courtois could still attempt to recover in time. Yahoo Sports says he may try to play through his illness and could travel to Barcelona later if he feels better. The Athletic similarly frames the situation around Courtois being hopeful of traveling after the club ruled him out earlier. StudioFútbol also reports that Courtois remains optimistic and does not rule out making the trip himself.
A separate Yahoo Sports item also shifts focus to Barcelona’s matchup dynamics, citing that the club’s record against Real Madrid’s backup goalkeeper offers both “hope and concern,” tying Courtois’s absence to what may happen at goal. Other outlets stick closely to the club’s announcement and describe the implications for Real Madrid’s lineup.
