Real Madrid miss Courtois, Lunin steps in for crucial Clásico

Real Madrid must play Sunday evening’s Clásico without Thibaut Courtois, the Belgian goalkeeper has been removed from the match squad due to illness, the club announced via its official social media channels. Spanish media confirm that the final choice, also permanently, is ill.

Goalkeeper change and extra option

Courtois’ absence means that Andriy Lunin will likely be under the bar at the Camp Nou. Coach José Mourinho has also added Ilya Voloshin, a nineteen‑year‑old goalkeeper from the Royal’s second team, to the squad. Although Lunin is generally reliable, he will have to deliver an exceptionally high standard against Barcelona.

In addition to Courtois, Vinícius Júnior also misses the match; the Brazilian forward is suspended after a red card against Villarreal, which he received in that game. Ferland Mendy, Raúl Asencio and Rodrygo are also unavailable, although their absence is considered less significant.

Injuries at Barcelona

Barcelona must also start with a reduced squad. Jules Koundé, Eric García, Dani Olmo, Andreas Christensen and Roony Bardghji are all dealing with injuries, leaving coach Hansi Flick with a puzzle when assembling his eleven.

Mourinho sparks Courtois clash by praising Lunin before the Clásico

Frenkie de Jong is fit for the Catalans; the Dutch midfielder has recovered from a knee injury sustained during the World Cup, but has not yet made his return. The Clásico offers him a chance to get minutes again.

The kickoff in Madrid is scheduled for Sunday evening at 21:00. According to Realmadrid.com, Courtois has been ruled out by a flu process and Illia Voloshyn has been added to the squad list. Los Blancos will have to survive without their star keeper, while Barcelona tries to prevent a nine‑point lead from Flick’s side.

Despite the many absences, both teams go all out for the win, with Real Madrid hoping to limit the deficit and Barcelona aiming for a comfortable lead.