Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has been ruled out of El Clásico against Barcelona after suffering a flu-like illness. The Spanish club confirmed his late withdrawal ahead of the La Liga fixture and announced that 19-year-old Ukrainian goalkeeper Illia Voloshyn had been called up as his replacement.
Courtois’ absence comes as Real Madrid prepare for a crucial clash against their fierce rivals, who sit top of the La Liga table with 27 points from nine matches. Barcelona have won all nine of their league games this season and will aim to maintain their perfect record, while Madrid hope to reduce the six-point gap and strengthen their title challenge.
Real Madrid will also be without Brazilian forward Vinícius Júnior, who is serving a four-match domestic suspension. The hosts will be looking to overcome these setbacks as they face a Barcelona side seeking to extend its winning run and maintain its position at the top of the standings.
