“He won’t play,” Carlo Ancelotti draws a line under a starter after the break

Real Madrid is gearing up for a return to competition after a ten-day break, with high stakes in both La Liga and the Copa del Rey. Carlo Ancelotti and his team have no room for error in their pursuit of titles at the season’s end. This Saturday, they must secure all three points from the 29th round of La Liga against Leganés at the Santiago Bernabéu. This victory is crucial to prevent FC Barcelona from pulling away at the top of the table, following their win against Osasuna. For this match, Ancelotti will have to manage without his starting goalkeeper, Thibaut Courtois.

Courtois’ physical problems persist. The Belgian goalkeeper, called up for his national team during the recent international break, played only one match due to muscle issues. He missed the game against Ukraine in the Nations League and, upon his return to Madrid, he is still not fully recovered. Despite resuming training with the team, he missed Friday’s session, confirming his absence for the match against Leganés.

“Courtois has a minor injury, he can recover in a few days. We are waiting for Mendy and Ceballos for the first leg of the Champions League against Arsenal,” Ancelotti stated in a press conference on Friday.

This absence provides an opportunity for Andriy Lunin, who played with his national team last week, to play two consecutive matches in Madrid’s goal. In addition to Saturday’s game, Lunin, the starting goalkeeper in the Copa del Rey, will play the second leg of the semi-final against Real Sociedad next Tuesday. After a valuable performance in the first leg, which Real Madrid won 1-0, Lunin will have the significant task of making Courtois’ importance in big games less noticeable.

The concern is growing around Courtois, whose physical problems have persisted for several weeks. Although he doesn’t play every match, his recurring muscle issues are worrying, especially at this crucial end of the season. Even though Lunin is a competent goalkeeper, Courtois’ importance in goal is undeniable.

The Belgian is expected to return for the 30th round of La Liga against Valencia, before the first leg of the Champions League quarter-final against Arsenal. However, UEFA is investigating Vinicius, Rüdiger, Bellingham, and Ceballos for incidents during the round of 16 against Atletico Madrid, which could lead to sanctions.

Real Madrid must remain focused on their objectives, despite these challenges. The victory against Leganés is essential to maintain pressure on FC Barcelona in La Liga. In the Copa del Rey, the match against Real Sociedad will be a significant test for Lunin and the team as a whole.

Ancelotti must manage his squad carefully, considering injuries and potential suspensions. The depth of the team will be crucial to navigate this busy period. Young players like Lunin have the opportunity to showcase their value and gain the coach’s trust.

The end of the season promises to be thrilling for Real Madrid, with decisive matches in La Liga and the Champions League. Fans hope the team can overcome the obstacles and win titles. Courtois’ absence is a blow, but Lunin has the chance to prove he is a reliable replacement.

Real Madrid has a rich history of success, and the current team is determined to continue that tradition. Ancelotti, with his experience and expertise, is the ideal leader to guide the team to victory. The players are motivated and ready to fight for every ball.

The passion of Real Madrid’s fans is a valuable asset to the team. Their unwavering support at the Santiago Bernabéu gives the players the energy to excel. The connection between the team and its fans is a force that can make a difference in crucial moments.

Real Madrid is more than a football club; it is an institution that represents excellence and grandeur. The players who wear the white jersey are aware of the legacy they represent, and they are determined to write their own chapter in the club’s history.

The end of the season promises to be filled with emotions for Real Madrid fans. They hope the team can achieve its goals and win titles. Courtois’ absence is a challenge, but the team has the resources to overcome it.

Real Madrid is a club that never backs down from challenges. The team is ready to fight until the end to achieve its objectives. Fans are eager to see what the future holds for their beloved team.

Real Madrid is a club that has always known how to recover from difficult moments. The team is determined to overcome Courtois’ absence and achieve important victories. Fans are confident in the team’s ability to achieve its goals.

Real Madrid is a club that has always shown resilience. The team is determined to overcome Courtois’ absence and achieve important victories. Fans are confident in the team’s ability to achieve its goals.

Real Madrid is a club that has always shown character. The team is determined to overcome Courtois’ absence and achieve important victories. Fans are confident in the team’s ability to achieve its goals.