Real Madrid Complete Final Training Session Ahead of Espanyol Clash

TL;DR

Real Madrid completed their final training session before facing Espanyol in La Liga. Key players remain sidelined, but Thibaut Courtois is nearing a return to full fitness.

Key points

Real Madrid held final training session before Espanyol match
Thibaut Courtois is nearing full fitness after injury
Andriy Lunin expected to start in goal against Espanyol

Real MadridEspanyolThibaut CourtoisDani Carvajal

MADRID, SPAIN - APRIL 30: Dani Carvajal and Jude Bellingham of Real Madrid during a training session at Ciudad Real Madrid on April 30, 2026 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Maria Jimenez - Real Madrid/Real Madrid via Getty Images) | Real Madrid via Getty Images Real Madrid held their final training session at Real Madrid City ahead of Sunday’s La Liga fixture against Espanyol at the RCDE Stadium (9:00 PM, broadcast on Orange TV, Movistar LaLiga, and Movistar Plus+). The session began with a video analysis meeting before the players took to the pitch. Once outside, the focus shifted to physical and technical preparation, starting with activation drills and reaction-speed exercises. The squad then moved into rondos before working on set pieces and a large-sided game. The training wrapped up with shooting drills and free-kick practice as the team fine-tuned details ahead of the match. Several players remain sidelined as they continue their respective recovery processes, including Dani Carvajal, Arda Güler, Thibaut Courtois, Kylian Mbappé, Éder Militão, and Rodrygo. Courtois, however, is nearing a return. The goalkeeper has been back training on the pitch in recent days and is said to be very close to full fitness. While he has not yet rejoined full group training, he has progressed to more demanding work, including explosive movements and impact drills. A return appears imminent, though the coaching staff is taking a cautious approach. There is a possibility he could be included in the squad for the Espanyol match, but is still expected to start, which would mark his ninth consecutive appearance. The priority remains avoiding any risk of relapse, and Courtois will not be rushed back until he is fully ready. It has now been 45 days since Courtois’ injury, and his recovery is entering its final stages. While a return this weekend may be premature, the focus is increasingly shifting toward the upcoming Clásico. With continued progress over the next week and a half, the Belgian is targeting a return to the starting lineup in that match—potentially marking his comeback 55 days after sustaining the injury in Manchester.

Q&A

What time is the Real Madrid vs Espanyol match?

The match is scheduled for 9:00 PM local time.

Is Thibaut Courtois playing against Espanyol?

Courtois is close to returning but is not expected to play; Andriy Lunin will likely start instead.

How long has it been since Courtois' injury?

It has been 45 days since Courtois sustained his injury.