Courtois Targets Clásico Return as Real Madrid Finalize Espanyol Preparations

Key facts

• Thibaut Courtois has been sidelined for 45 days due to injury sustained in Manchester.
• Real Madrid held final training at Valdebebas ahead of Sunday's La Liga match against Espanyol.
• The match at RCDE Stadium kicks off at 9:00 PM and will be broadcast on Orange TV, Movistar LaLiga, and Movistar Plus+.
• Courtois has progressed to explosive movements and impact drills but has not rejoined full group training.
• Andriy Lunin is expected to start his ninth consecutive match in goal.
• Courtois targets a return to the starting lineup for the upcoming Clásico, potentially 55 days post-injury.
• Sidelined players include Dani Carvajal, Arda Güler, Kylian Mbappé, Éder Militão, and Rodrygo.

Final Preparations at Valdebebas

Real Madrid completed their final training session at Real Madrid City on Saturday, putting the finishing touches on their game plan for Sunday’s La Liga fixture against Espanyol at the RCDE Stadium. The session began with a video analysis meeting, after which the players moved to the pitch for a series of drills. Activation exercises and reaction-speed work kicked off the outdoor portion, followed by rondos, set-piece practice, and a large-sided game. The training concluded with shooting drills and free-kick practice as the squad fine-tuned details ahead of the 9:00 PM kickoff, which will be broadcast on Orange TV, Movistar LaLiga, and Movistar Plus+.

Courtois Nears Full Fitness

Thibaut Courtois is edging closer to a return after 45 days on the sidelines. The goalkeeper has been training on the pitch in recent days, progressing to more demanding work that includes explosive movements and impact drills. While he has not yet rejoined full group training, his recovery is entering its final stages. The coaching staff is taking a cautious approach, prioritizing the avoidance of any risk of relapse. There is a possibility Courtois could be included in the squad for the Espanyol match, but Andriy Lunin is still expected to start, which would mark his ninth consecutive appearance in goal.

Injury List and Recovery Timeline

Several key players remain sidelined as they continue their recovery processes. Alongside Courtois, the list includes Dani Carvajal, Arda Güler, Kylian Mbappé, Éder Militão, and Rodrygo. Courtois’ injury occurred in Manchester, and his return is being managed with extreme caution. With continued progress over the next week and a half, the Belgian is targeting a return to the starting lineup for the upcoming Clásico. That match would potentially mark his comeback 55 days after sustaining the injury, a timeline that reflects the club’s deliberate approach to his rehabilitation.

Espanyol Match Preview

Sunday’s clash at the RCDE Stadium presents an opportunity for Real Madrid to build momentum as they navigate a congested fixture list. Espanyol, fighting for points in the lower half of the table, will look to exploit any fatigue or disruption in the Madrid ranks. Real Madrid’s preparations have been thorough, with the squad focusing on set pieces and free kicks to break down a likely compact Espanyol defense. The absence of key attacking players like Mbappé and Rodrygo places additional responsibility on the remaining forwards to deliver in front of goal.

Lunin’s Continued Role

Andriy Lunin has been a reliable presence in goal during Courtois’ absence, and his expected ninth consecutive start underscores the trust the coaching staff has in him. The Ukrainian goalkeeper has stepped up admirably, but the imminent return of Courtois will inevitably shift the dynamics in the squad. Lunin’s performances have kept Real Madrid competitive, but the club’s long-term plans clearly revolve around Courtois as the undisputed number one. The transition back will be managed carefully to maintain squad harmony and performance levels.

Outlook: Clásico in Sight

The focus is increasingly shifting toward the Clásico, with Courtois’ potential return providing a significant boost. A fully fit Courtois would restore Real Madrid’s first-choice defense, which has been disrupted by injuries to multiple starters. The next week and a half will be critical for Courtois’ rehabilitation. If he continues to progress without setbacks, he could be in line to face Barcelona in what would be a high-stakes return. The coaching staff, however, remains committed to not rushing him back until he is fully ready, ensuring that his comeback is sustainable.

The bottom line

• Thibaut Courtois is nearing full fitness after 45 days out and could return for the Clásico.
• Andriy Lunin will start his ninth consecutive match in goal against Espanyol.
• Real Madrid’s final training session focused on set pieces and free kicks.
• Six first-team players remain sidelined, including Mbappé and Militão.
• The club is taking a cautious approach to avoid any risk of relapse for Courtois.
• Courtois’ potential return 55 days post-injury would be a major boost for the Clásico.