Real Madrid fans were left holding their breath during the half-time break of tonight’s Champions League clash against Manchester City. Despite a dominant performance, the sight of Andriy Lunin warming up to replace Thibaut Courtois sparked immediate concern.
Here is everything we know about the situation so far.
The Reason for the Substitution
While Courtois didn’t appear to suffer a collision or a dramatic “fall” during the first half, reports from Movistar indicate that the Belgian international felt discomfort in his right adductor (the muscles at the top of the inner thigh).
With Madrid leading 4-1 on aggregate and City down to ten men following Bernardo Silva’s red card, Álvaro Arbeloa and the medical staff opted for extreme caution.
Injury Outlook: How Serious Is It?
The decision seems to be more precautionary than a sign of a long-term layoff.
- The Context: Madrid were firmly in control. Risking a full tear by keeping him on for another 45 minutes would have been reckless given the heavy schedule ahead.
- Next Steps: Courtois will likely undergo scans at Valdebebas tomorrow to determine the extent of the strain.
- The Replacement: Andriy Lunin has stepped in for the second half. While Lunin has struggled for rhythm this season (conceding eight goals in his three previous appearances), he now has a golden opportunity to prove his worth before his rumored summer departure.
The Impact on the Tie
Madrid’s “Triple Crown” of a 3-goal lead, an away-goal cushion, and a man advantage means the pressure on Lunin is significantly reduced. However, Madridistas will be sweating on the scan results, as Courtois remains the undisputed backbone of this defense for the later rounds.
RMxtra Note: It’s better to lose him for 45 minutes tonight than for 4 weeks in the business end of the season. Fingers crossed for a “minor strain” diagnosis.