Real Madrid’s hopes for the upcoming Clasico against La Liga leaders Barcelona on Saturday are clouded by injury concerns surrounding key players Thibaut Courtois and Rodrygo.
The duo’s absence follows Madrid’s thrilling 5-2 victory over Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League on Tuesday, which came at a cost.
Courtois has been diagnosed with an adductor injury in his left leg, prompting the club to confirm that Ukrainian goalkeeper Andriy Lunin will step in as his replacement.
Lunin previously filled in for Courtois earlier this month after the Belgian sustained a minor hip injury.
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Additionally, Rodrygo appeared to be injured towards the end of the match against Dortmund.
Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti noted that the winger has a “muscular injury,” with Spanish media reporting that he is likely to miss the crucial encounter due to a hamstring issue.
As the reigning champions prepare for the high-stakes clash, they find themselves trailing Hansi Flick’s Barcelona by three points in the standings.