Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has yet to rejoin the squad and will miss at least the team’s next two matches—against Leganés in La Liga and Real Sociedad in the Copa del Rey. The Belgian star is prioritizing his recovery in hopes of returning for next week’s home fixture against Valencia, a timeline that would position him to start when Real Madrid face Arsenal in the first leg of the Champions League quarterfinals the following week.
In Courtois’ absence, backup goalkeeper Andriy Lunin will step into the starting role. Lunin was already expected to feature in Carlo Ancelotti’s lineup for the second leg of the Copa del Rey semifinals against Real Sociedad next week, and his inclusion against Leganés this Saturday offers a valuable opportunity to sharpen his form and build confidence.
Courtois’ physical issues are not considered a cause for concern by Ancelotti and his coaching staff, and the club fully expects him to be available for the crucial fixtures ahead.