Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois will be sidelined for a couple of weeks due to a hip muscle injury, as confirmed by the club. Spanish media reports suggest he is expected to return by mid-October,
Courtois would be missing crucial matches including the Champions League clash against Lille on Wednesday and the La Liga match against Villarreal next weekend.
The injury occurred during Madrid’s 1-1 derby draw against Atletico Madrid, where Courtois was subjected to object-throwing by rival fans.
In a statement, the club noted, “After tests carried out today, he has been diagnosed with an abductor injury.”
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Courtois had previously battled a severe knee injury for much of last season but made a successful comeback in time for Madrid’s Champions League final victory.
Ukrainian goalkeeper Andriy Lunin is set to take over in Courtois’ absence, having stepped in last season as well.