Real Madrid expect star player to return for decisive El Clasico showdown

Real Madrid expect star player to return for decisive El Clasico showdown

Real Madrid must win at Espanyol on Saturday to ensure they remain in the La Liga title race alongside arch rivals Barcelona. Alvaro Arbeloa’s side currently trail the Catalans by 11 points, with that gap having increased significant in the weeks that starting goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has been out.

Courtois has been absent since picking up an injury prior to Real Madrid’s Champions League victory over Manchester City in March – he suffered the hamstring issue in the warm-up, but proceeded to play the first half at the Etihad Stadium. And while Andriy Lunin has done well in his absence, Los Blancos officials will be desperate to have the Belgian goalkeeper back as soon as possible.

According to Diario AS, Courtois is expected to return next weekend for the aforementioned El Clasico showdown at the Spotify Camp Nou. Real Madrid see it as certain that their star goalkeeper will receive the medical green light in time to travel to Catalonia, although Sunday’s match with Espanyol will come too soon for him.

Courtois has been partially training with Real Madrid over the last few days, and from the start of next week, it’s expected that he will return to the group. All being well, he will be passed fit to face Barcelona, and if that does happen, he will be certain to reclaim his place in the line-up.