Real Madrid starting goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has reportedly contracted the flu and will miss the upcoming tenth-round Spanish league fixture against arch-rivals Barcelona. According to the club's official announcements, the Belgian guardian woke up with severe symptoms ahead of the crucial matchup.

The absence of such a pivotal defensive pillar is considered a major setback for the Spanish powerhouse, raising questions about their defensive stability under pressure. In response to the crisis, the club management has reportedly added 19-year-old Ukrainian goalkeeper Ilya Voloshin to the matchday squad, despite his lack of top-tier experience in high-stakes encounters.

The much-anticipated clash between Barcelona and Real Madrid is scheduled to take place on October 26 at the Spotify Camp Nou stadium, kicking off late at night according to local time zones. Both camps are currently facing mounting pressure as the domestic campaign reaches a critical juncture.

At present, Barcelona comfortably leads the domestic league standings with 27 points accumulated from nine matches. Meanwhile, the struggling Real Madrid side sits in third place with 21 points, desperately needing a positive result to close the gap.

Source: kun.uz