Courtois ruled out of El Clasico with flu as Lunin steps in

Real Madrid have confirmed that goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois will miss Sunday’s El Clasico against Barcelona after dropping out of the squad at the last minute through illness.

“Courtois is a last-minute absence due to a flu-like illness for tonight’s match between Real Madrid and Barcelona, corresponding to the tenth matchday of La Liga,” the club said in a statement, with goalkeeper Voloshyn called up to the squad in his place.

Back-up goalkeeper Andriy Lunin is now expected to start between the posts for Real Madrid at Camp Nou, in one of the biggest matches of their season.

The news is a blow for the visitors, who go into the game third in La Liga on 21 points, six behind leaders Barcelona. Atletico Madrid sit second after beating Deportivo on Saturday night.

Courtois had been expected to start against Barcelona. He has played 12 matches across all competitions this season, conceding 14 goals and keeping two clean sheets, according to Outlook India.

Sources: Barca Blaugranes, https://www.barcablaugranes.com/barcelona-la-liga/136029/rival-watch-real-madrid-rule-thibaut-courtois-out-of-el-clasico ; Outlook India, https://www.outlookindia.com/sports/football/thibaut-courtois-ruled-out-barcelona-vs-real-madrid-la-liga-el-clasico-2026-27