Real Madrid's Thibaut Courtois Sidelined for Madrid Derby; UEFA Champions League 2025-26 Availability in Doubt

Real Madrid's preparations for a critical period of their season have been dealt a significant blow with first-choice goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois confirmed to miss this weekend's Madrid derby against Atlético Madrid. Further concerns have emerged regarding his availability for the highly anticipated UEFA Champions League quarter-final tie against Bayern Munich, following an adductor injury sustained earlier this week. UCL 2025-26: Barcelona Thrash Newcastle United, Liverpool Cruise into Quarters; Bayern Munich, Atletico Madrid Also Advance.

The Belgian international was substituted at half-time during Real Madrid's Champions League victory over Manchester City on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, after reporting discomfort in his right adductor muscle. Initial reports from Spanish media, including AS, suggest the injury could be a muscle tear rather than a minor strain, prompting significant worry within the club. Courtois is scheduled to undergo an MRI scan today, March 19, 2026, which is expected to provide a clearer diagnosis of the injury's severity and a more accurate timeline for his potential return.

His absence for the Madrid derby on Sunday, March 22, 2026, is now widely anticipated. This La Liga fixture against city rivals Atlético Madrid holds considerable importance for Real Madrid's domestic title aspirations. The 33-year-old goalkeeper has been a pivotal figure for Los Blancos this season, making 41 appearances and keeping 15 clean sheets, underscoring his importance to the team's defensive solidity.

The injury also casts a shadow over Real Madrid's Champions League ambitions. The club is set to face German giants Bayern Munich in the quarter-finals, with the first leg scheduled for April 7 or 8 at the Santiago Bernabéu, and the return leg at the Allianz Arena on April 14 or 15. Real Madrid Advance to UEFA Champions League 2025-26 Quarter-Finals After Vinicius Jr Brace Downs 10-Man Manchester City.

Should the scan reveal a significant tear, Courtois could face a layoff of several weeks, making his participation in these crucial European encounters highly doubtful. In his stead, Ukrainian goalkeeper Andriy Lunin is expected to step in for the upcoming fixtures, a role he assumed after Courtois's substitution against Manchester City.

Real Madrid will be anxiously awaiting the results of Courtois's MRI scan, as his prolonged absence would undoubtedly test the squad's depth during a demanding phase of the season. The club's pursuit of both La Liga and Champions League glory now hinges on the recovery of their star goalkeeper and the performance of his understudy.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Mar 19, 2026 05:21 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).