Reported by Simon Daniel Yusuph l Journalist at Weng Global
Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has been ruled out of Sunday’s El Clásico against Barcelona after developing a flu-like illness, the Spanish club confirmed on October 25, 2026, in a late setback for manager José Mourinho ahead of one of football’s biggest fixtures.
The Belgian international will miss the La Liga encounter at Barcelona’s Spotify Camp Nou, with Ukrainian goalkeeper Illia Voloshyn called into the matchday squad to replace him, according to an official announcement published on Real Madrid’s website.
Courtois’ absence forces Real Madrid to adjust its preparations shortly before the meeting with its fierce rivals. Andriy Lunin is expected to take over in goal, although the final team selection rests with Mourinho.
The development comes at a crucial point in the Spanish league season, with Barcelona occupying first place and Real Madrid seeking to reduce the gap between the teams.
Real Madrid Confirm Courtois’ Late Withdrawal
Real Madrid announced on Sunday that Courtois would be unavailable because of a flu-like illness.
The club did not provide further details about the severity of the illness or specify when the goalkeeper would be expected to return to training.
Voloshyn was added to the squad as his replacement, ensuring that Real Madrid had another goalkeeper available for the match.
Courtois has established himself as one of the club’s most important players since joining from Chelsea in 2018. His performances, particularly in high-pressure matches, have made him a central figure in Real Madrid’s defensive setup.
His absence is therefore a significant consideration for Mourinho as he prepares his team to face Barcelona away from home.
However, the club’s announcement did not indicate that Courtois had suffered a new injury. The confirmed reason for his withdrawal was illness.
Andriy Lunin Expected to Replace the Belgian
Ukrainian goalkeeper Andriy Lunin is expected to start in Courtois’ place.
Lunin has served as Real Madrid’s principal alternative in goal and has previously stepped in when Courtois was unavailable.
According to Reuters, Lunin’s last appearance for the club before the Clásico came on May 3, 2026, when Real Madrid defeated Espanyol 2-0. He had not featured in the team’s league campaign this season before Sunday’s match.
Starting against Barcelona would present Lunin with a major opportunity to demonstrate his readiness for an important competitive fixture.
The goalkeeper would face the challenge of maintaining defensive organisation against a Barcelona side competing for the league title.
Real Madrid’s defensive performance will consequently be important, particularly given the intensity and attacking quality traditionally associated with El Clásico.
Voloshyn’s inclusion also provides additional cover in the goalkeeping department.
Barcelona and Real Madrid Face an Important League Encounter
The meeting between Barcelona and Real Madrid is one of the most closely watched fixtures in world football, attracting attention from supporters across Europe, Africa and other regions.
Beyond the rivalry between the clubs, the result can influence the direction of the La Liga title race.
According to reporting published ahead of Sunday’s match, Barcelona entered the fixture with 27 points, while Real Madrid had 21 after nine league matches. Barcelona therefore held a six-point advantage over its rivals.
A victory for Real Madrid would offer Mourinho’s side an opportunity to reduce that gap, while a Barcelona win could strengthen the home side’s position at the top of the standings.
Courtois’ unavailability adds another tactical consideration for Real Madrid as the team prepares to face its strongest domestic rival.
Nevertheless, his absence does not determine the outcome. The performance of the replacement goalkeeper, the organisation of the defence and the effectiveness of both teams in attack will all contribute to the result.
What Courtois’ Absence Means for Real Madrid
Courtois’ withdrawal highlights the importance of squad depth during a demanding football season.
Clubs competing across domestic and European competitions must prepare for situations in which important players become unavailable because of injuries, illness or suspension.
Real Madrid’s ability to respond to Courtois’ absence will depend partly on how effectively Lunin adapts to the demands of the match and how well the defensive unit performs in front of him.
The club has not announced a return date for Courtois, meaning his availability for subsequent fixtures will depend on his recovery and any further medical updates.
For now, Real Madrid must concentrate on the immediate challenge against Barcelona.
The match will also provide an opportunity for Lunin to demonstrate that he can be relied upon when the first-choice goalkeeper is unavailable.
What Happens Next?
Real Madrid are expected to rely on Lunin in goal for the El Clásico, while Voloshyn provides an additional option on the bench.
The club has not disclosed when Courtois will return to action.
His recovery and subsequent availability will be important considerations for Mourinho as Real Madrid continues its domestic and European campaign.
The immediate focus, however, remains Sunday’s encounter at Camp Nou, where Real Madrid will attempt to compete for three important league points without one of its most established players.
Weng Global – stories beyond borders
Sources
- Real Madrid official website
- Reuters
- Agencia EFE
