Thibaut Courtois injured, Andriy Lunin ready for Clasico challenge

Just days after their thrilling 5-2 comeback victory over Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League, the club have announced that Courtois has sustained an adductor injury to his left leg.

The official statement read, "Following tests conducted by Real Madrid's medical services, Thibaut Courtois has been diagnosed with an injury to the adductor of his left leg. He is pending further evaluation."

Following the Dortmund match, Courtois expressed his frustration regarding the team's defensive lapses, particularly during the first half. "I was angry because we were allowing them too many chances near our area," he said, highlighting a crucial moment when he denied Julian Brandt's powerful shot.

"We had to wake up and react, but that won't always work. We need to start as we did in the second half," he warned, unaware that he would miss the vital clash with Barcelona on Saturday at Santiago Bernabeu Stadium.

This season has proven challenging for Courtois, who has already suffered two muscular injuries, one against Atletico Madrid on 29 September and another during the Dortmund match. 

The medical team have suggested that these issues might be a consequence of overcompensating after a previous cruciate ligament injury, estimating a recovery period of approximately two weeks.

Consequently, Courtois is set to miss matches against Valencia and AC Milan, hoping to return for the Champions League fixture against the latter.

In Courtois' absence, Andriy Lunin will take the reins in goal. The Ukrainian goalkeeper has previously stepped up admirably last season when Courtois was sidelined with a knee injury, playing a vital role in securing both the La Liga and Champions League titles.

Lunin, who has already started two matches this season, is no stranger to high-pressure situations and played in all Clasicos during the previous campaign.

As the team prepare for this crucial encounter, Lunin's experience will be invaluable against Barcelona.

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