Real Madrid’s preparations for their La Liga trip to Girona come with one big question: Will Thibaut Courtois be back between the posts? The Belgian goalkeeper missed the recent Champions League win over Olympiacos after being diagnosed with an illness, forcing Carlo Ancelotti to turn to Andriy Lunin in Greece.
According to the latest reports, Courtois is considered a minor doubt rather than a serious absentee. The expectation is that he will be cleared to return to the squad in time for the Girona match, provided his recovery continues as planned. For Real Madrid fans, that is a huge relief, as the team enters another demanding run of fixtures in both La Liga and the Champions League.
What Happened to Courtois?
Courtouis was ruled out of the Olympiacos match after falling ill shortly before the trip. The setback was frustrating but not alarming for the coaching staff, who quickly confirmed that it was a short-term problem rather than a muscle or ligament injury.
The club’s medical staff have been monitoring him day by day, keeping a close eye on his fitness levels and overall condition. The most important news is that this is an illness, not a structural injury, so once he has fully recovered and regained his strength, there should be no long-term consequences for the Belgian shot-stopper.
Courtois himself is known for his professionalism and high standards, and he will not want to return to the pitch unless he feels fully ready to perform at his best. However, with important matches coming up, everyone at the club is hopeful that his recovery can be completed in time for Girona.
Real Madrid’s Wider Injury Picture
Courtois’ situation comes at a time when Real Madrid are already juggling several issues at the back. Various defenders have had to manage muscle problems in recent weeks, forcing Carlo Ancelotti to rotate his back line and rely on different combinations in central defence.
That constant reshuffling has added pressure on the goalkeeper position, making the presence of a commanding figure like Courtois even more valuable. His communication, organisation and experience often help to stabilise the entire defensive unit, especially in difficult away games.
With Real Madrid fighting on multiple fronts, getting their first-choice goalkeeper back to full fitness is a priority. The coaching staff know that a solid defensive base will be vital if they are to maintain their title challenge in La Liga while also pushing for success in Europe.
How Much Did Madrid Miss Him vs Olympiacos?
In Courtois’ absence, Andriy Lunin stepped in and had a challenging evening in Greece. Real Madrid still managed to win 4–3, but conceding three goals again highlighted just how important Courtois is as a safety net behind a defence that has not always been at full strength.
Courtois’s command of the box, his ability to claim crosses and his calmness in one-on-one situations are crucial in tight matches. Those qualities often make the difference in away fixtures, where the atmosphere is intense, and opponents are eager to test the Madrid back line at every opportunity.
Girona may not be one of the biggest names in La Liga, but they are always competitive on their own pitch. They will look to put pressure on whoever starts in goal, whether it is Courtois returning or Lunin getting another opportunity between the posts.
What It Means for Girona vs Real Madrid
As things stand, the most realistic scenario is that Courtois returns to the matchday squad for the trip to Girona. From there, Carlo Ancelotti and his staff will decide close to kick-off whether the Belgian is ready to start or if it is wiser to ease him back more gradually.
If Courtois is cleared to start, Real Madrid instantly gains experience, leadership and confidence at the back. His presence alone lifts the players in front of him, and it also reassures fans who know how many times he has delivered in big moments.
If, however, he is not quite ready to start, Lunin will likely get another chance, knowing that Courtois should be fully back very soon. Either way, the overall news around the Belgian is positive: this is not a long-term layoff, and he is moving closer to a full return.
Conclusion
For RMxtra readers, the key takeaway is simple:
- Problem: Short-term illness kept Courtois out of the Olympiacos game.
- Severity: Not a serious or long-term injury.
- Status vs Girona: Minor doubt, but expected to be available for selection if recovery continues as planned.
Real Madrid’s defence has been under heavy strain recently, but the likely return of Thibaut Courtois ahead of the Girona clash is a major boost for Carlo Ancelotti and the fans. If the Belgian is back in goal, Los Blancos will feel much more secure as they continue their push for trophies on all fronts.