Real Madrid Suffer Courtois Injury Blow Before Olympiacos Clash

Real Madrid have confirmed a significant setback ahead of their crucial Champions League fixture against Olympiacos, as first-choice goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois and promising defender Dean Huijsen have both been ruled out due to injury and illness.

Courtois Ruled Out With Gastroenteritis

Real Madrid’s preparations for the decisive Champions League match at the Georgios Karaiskakis Stadium have been disrupted by the absence of Thibaut Courtois. The 33-year-old Belgian shot-stopper, a cornerstone of Madrid’s recent successes, has been diagnosed with gastroenteritis. According to the official medical report released by the club, Courtois will not travel with the squad to Athens and his recovery will be closely monitored. This leaves Real Madrid facing uncertainty in goal as they look to solidify their position in the group.

Courtois, who has started every match for Madrid across La Liga and Champions League this season, reportedly missed Tuesday’s training session at Valdebebas and departed the facility before activities began. The timeline for his return remains unclear, and his availability for the upcoming weekend encounter against Girona is also in doubt.

Lunin Poised to Step Up in Goal

With Courtois sidelined, Andriy Lunin is expected to start between the posts for Real Madrid against Olympiacos. Lunin, who has struggled for regular playing time under Xabi Alonso this season, now has an opportunity to showcase his abilities on a major European stage. The Ukrainian international joined the club in 2018 but has often played second fiddle to Courtois.

Despite his limited appearances, Lunin impressed during the 2023-24 campaign, stepping up heroically when Courtois suffered a serious ACL injury. His performance, especially in Champions League knockout matches—most notably a penalty shootout triumph against Manchester City—helped Madrid clinch both La Liga and the Champions League last season. Lunin will be eager to seize this opportunity and reaffirm his value to the squad.

Defensive Woes Deepen With Huijsen Absence

The Courtois injury is compounded by the withdrawal of centre-back Dean Huijsen, who did not participate in team training on Tuesday and was subsequently omitted from the squad traveling to Greece. Huijsen has been battling fitness issues in recent weeks, and his absence further stretches Madrid’s depleted defensive line.

Madrid are already missing key defenders Antonio Rudiger, David Alaba, and Eder Militao due to injury. This leaves Raul Asencio as the only senior centre-back currently available. Head coach Xabi Alonso may have to turn to versatile options such as Alvaro Carreras or even promote young talents from Real Madrid Castilla, including Mario Rivas and Diego Aguado, to fill the defensive void.

Real Madrid Champions League Hopes Under Pressure

The absence of Courtois and Huijsen comes at a delicate moment for Real Madrid, as the team looks to recover from recent setbacks. After a strong start to the season, Alonso’s side has faced a dip in form, suffering a defeat to Liverpool and being held to draws by Rayo Vallecano and Elche. With criticism mounting and their Champions League campaign in the balance, Madrid cannot afford another slip-up in Athens.

Lunin’s display in goal and the makeshift defense will be under intense scrutiny. The pressure is on Alonso to inspire a turnaround and maintain Madrid’s ambitions on the European stage. Another disappointing result would only add to the scrutiny surrounding the coach and the squad.

Looking Ahead and Squad Depth Concerns

Madrid’s growing injury list highlights the importance of squad depth during a challenging fixture schedule. The absence of key figures like Courtois and Huijsen puts further strain on the team, and the ability of fringe players to step up will be crucial in the coming weeks. Alonso has previously emphasized the need for all players to be ready, and now is the moment for those on the periphery to make their mark.

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Opinion: Madrid’s Depth Faces Ultimate Test

Injuries are an inevitable part of any football season, but the timing of Courtois’ illness and Huijsen’s fitness setback has left Real Madrid especially vulnerable ahead of a pivotal Champions League tie. Lunin’s chance to shine is well-deserved, but the defensive reshuffle will test the squad’s character and Alonso’s tactical adaptability. Madrid’s response in Athens will provide a telling indication of their resilience and title credentials this season.