Real Madrid receive unexpected Courtois twist ahead of El Clasico against Barcelona

Real Madrid receive unexpected Courtois twist ahead of El Clasico against Barcelona Real Madrid could yet face a late decision over Thibaut Courtois ahead of Sunday’s El Clasico against Barcelona, despite the goalkeeper initially being ruled out with flu.  According to reporting from Mario Cortegana , the Belgian is determined to play at Camp Nou and could travel if his condition improves.  However, Real Madrid have officially announced his absence , meaning any return remains uncertain. The situation has created fresh uncertainty for Jose Mourinho’s side just hours before one of the season’s most important fixtures.  Courtois did not travel with the squad, which arrived in Barcelona around midday, but the possibility of a late change has kept the focus on his recovery. Courtois determined to give himself a chance Courtois was initially declared unavailable after suffering a flu-like illness, with Real Madrid confirming the setback in an official statement on Sunday.  Courtois was ruled out for El Clasico. (Photo by Tullio M. Puglia/Getty Images) As reported before, youth team goalkeeper Illia Voloshyn would replace him in the matchday squad .  However, reports suggest the Belgian has not abandoned hope of featuring against Barcelona.  If his symptoms ease sufficiently, a late trip to Catalonia has not been ruled out, although there has been no official confirmation that he will be available. Courtois’ determination shows the importance of the occasion, but his condition will ultimately determine whether he can play.  Real Madrid must be careful not to take unnecessary risks with their first-choice goalkeeper. Lunin and Voloshyn provide Real Madrid with alternatives Courtois is doing everything to make it for El Clasico. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images) With Courtois absent from the travelling squad, Andriy Lunin is expected to take over in goal .  The Ukrainian now faces the prospect of starting against Barcelona in a fixture that demands concentration and composure from the first minute. Real Madrid have also called up Voloshyn from the club’s C team as additional cover.  Sergio Mestre is the other goalkeeper included in the matchday group, giving Mourinho alternative options should the situation remain unchanged.  Lunin’s preparation is particularly important because any late change involving Courtois would leave Real Madrid managing a major selection decision close to kick-off.