Real Madrid will face Barcelona without first-choice goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois after the Belgian was ruled out of Sunday’s La Liga meeting with flu, leaving Andriy Lunin in line to start at Camp Nou.
The club confirmed the late change hours before the Matchday 10 fixture, announcing that Illia Voloshyn had been called up to the squad in Courtois’ place.
“Courtois is a last-minute withdrawal from tonight’s LaLiga matchday 10 game between Real Madrid and Barcelona due to a bout of the flu,” Madrid said in a statement.
“Illia Voloshyn has been called up to the squad in his place.”
Courtois’ absence comes as Madrid look to reduce Barcelona’s six-point lead in the league standings. Lunin, who has deputised for the Belgian in recent seasons, is expected to take responsibility in goal for the high-profile encounter.
The Ukrainian goalkeeper gained significant experience during Madrid’s run to the 2024 Champions League final and now faces another major test against their Spanish rivals.
Madrid will also be without forward Vinícius Júnior, who is serving a four-match domestic suspension. His absence removes another attacking option as the team seeks to respond after league defeats against Real Betis and Atletico Madrid.
Barcelona, meanwhile, enter the fixture looking to maintain their advantage at the top of the table, while Madrid need a result to close the gap in the title race.
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