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Courtois fit after latest injury flare-up
WHAT HAPPENED?
Despite concerns over his fitness, Thibaut Courtois has declared himself ready to return to action. The Belgian goalkeeper ruptured his ACL in August 2023, ruling him out for the rest of that campaign. This season, he has experienced recurring injuries, including a slight muscle strain after international duty with Belgium in March 2025. While Courtois missed recent matches due to muscle discomfort, he confirmed he has recovered and is available to face Arsenal in the Champions League clash at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday.
WHAT COURTOIS SAID
The Real Madrid goalkeeper expressed confidence in his fitness, stating: “I feel good, at 100%. I suffered two muscle problems at the beginning of the season and yes, this wasn’t serious. We just didn’t want to take a risk with them.”
The Belgian has played 37 matches this season, conceding 40 goals and keeping 11 clean sheets. However, Real Madrid’s attacking players have managed to hide the defensive issues with even more goals scored. His replacement, Lunin, has played 12 matches, with 19 goals conceded and 4 clean sheets.
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti will be relieved to have his first-choice goalkeeper back in the lineup. Courtois’s availability comes at a crucial time, especially given that backup goalkeeper Andriy Lunin is reportedly sidelined with a soleus muscle tear. This injury is expected to keep Lunin out for several weeks, further emphasizing the importance of Courtois’s return. Lunin has shown promise during his tenure but is now facing uncertainties regarding his future at the club, with reports suggesting he may leave at the end of the season.
WHAT NEXT?
Courtois is expected to start for Real Madrid in their Champions League quarter-final first-leg encounter against Arsenal on Tuesday. With goalkeeper injuries affecting the squad, Courtois’s performance could be pivotal as the team aims to secure a strong result in London.
Real Madrid will try to get a good result in London, as they aim to yet another Champions League trophy. Real Madrid are 2nd in La Liga 4 points behind Barcelona, and will play the Copa del Rey final against their Catalan rivals.
