Real Madrid face Barcelona without Thibaut Courtois after a sudden illness ahead of the crucial La Liga showdown.
Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has been ruled out of Sunday,s high-stakes El Clásico against Barcelona after contracting a sudden flu-like illness just hours before kickoff.
The Spanish club confirmed the late withdrawal on Sunday, announcing that 19-year-old Ukrainian goalkeeper Illia Voloshyn has been called up to the matchday squad as an emergency replacement.
This sudden absence presents a massive challenge for manager Carlo Ancelotti, according to information published by The Sun Nigeria, as Real Madrid attempt to close the gap at the top of the La Liga standings.
Thibaut Courtois ruled out with flu-like illness
The absence of the 34-year-old Belgian goalkeeper is a major blow for Real Madrid. Thibaut Courtois is an essential figure in the squad, and losing him hours before such a massive fixture tests the depth of the team.
In an official statement released on Sunday, the club confirmed his status, stating that Courtois is a last-minute absence due to a flu-like illness for the tenth matchday of the domestic league campaign.
Illia Voloshyn called up as emergency replacement
To cover for the stricken Belgian, Real Madrid turned to their youth ranks, calling up 19-year-old Ukrainian goalkeeper Illia Voloshyn to the senior squad for the daunting encounter against their fierce Catalan rivals.
The teenager steps into a high-pressure environment as the club navigates a critical moment in the season, needing stability at the back while missing one of their most experienced and reliable defensive leaders.
Barcelona leads La Liga standings ahead of El Clásico
Barcelona heads into the match with a commanding six-point lead over Real Madrid, who currently sit in third place in the league table after suffering two earlier defeats this season against Real Betis and Atlético Madrid.
The Catalan visitors have won all nine of their league matches so far, collecting 27 points, and will be searching for their 10th consecutive victory when they face their historic rivals on Sunday night.
Real Madrid battles further squad absences
Compounding the tactical headache for Real Madrid, the hosts will also be without Brazilian forward Vinícius Júnior, who must serve a four-match domestic suspension during this crucial phase of the competition.
Both Spanish giants are preparing to battle for critical points in the ongoing title race, but the latest squad setbacks leave the home side fighting an uphill battle against an in-form Barcelona team.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Thibaut Courtois missing El Clásico?
Thibaut Courtois missed the Sunday fixture against Barcelona after contracting a sudden flu-like illness hours before the match.Who replaced Thibaut Courtois in the Real Madrid squad?
Nineteen-year-old Ukrainian goalkeeper Illia Voloshyn was called up to the Real Madrid squad as a late replacement for the injured Belgian.
What is the league standings situation before El Clásico?
Barcelona leads La Liga with a six-point advantage over third-place Real Madrid, having won all nine of their opening matches.
