Real Madrid veteran superstar could be out for 4-8 weeks after World Cup injury
Real Madrid have been handed an early fitness concern ahead of the new season after Thibaut Courtois suffered a muscle injury while representing Belgium at the World Cup.
The goalkeeper left the quarter-final against Spain in tears, immediately raising fears over his availability for the start of the campaign.
As quoted by Defensa Central, sports physiotherapist and injury specialist Angel Villanueva believes Courtois may be sidelined for between four and eight weeks.
However, the full extent of the medical problem has not been confirmed yet, with the player still to undergo official medical tests.
Expert predicts lengthy absence
Villanueva described the injury as a “muscular problem in the left rectus femoris”, adding that “the approximate prognosis points to an absence of between four and eight weeks.”
That recovery period would place Courtois in serious doubt for Real Madrid’s opening matches.
Courtois could miss the start of the season. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
The new La Liga season is scheduled to begin on the weekend of 16 August, although the club’s game against Real Sociedad is all set to be postponed.
After the game against Spain, the Belgium shot-stopper said that he was okay to stay in goal with the injury, but it was the manager’s call to take him off.
While that could hint at Courtois not expecting it to be a serious injury, it could also be his desire to help his country that made him say those words.
Andriy Lunin could start the season
Unless Courtois recovers more quickly than expected, Andriy Lunin is likely to begin the season in goal.
That would give Jose Mourinho an experienced replacement, but it would also force the coach to prepare his defensive structure without his undisputed first-choice goalkeeper.
Courtois remains one of Real Madrid’s most decisive players. His shot-stopping, authority and experience in major matches are difficult to replace, even with a capable deputy such as Lunin available.
Courtois remains a key player for Real Madrid. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)
Injury issues have started to creep into the Belgian’s game in recent seasons, which is understandable considering his age.
The Belgian suffered a serious knee injury during the 2023-24 season and has since dealt with further muscular problems, including a tear that kept him out for more than a month last season.
At 34, careful workload management will become increasingly important. That does not reduce his value or his level, but Real Madrid cannot ignore repeated physical setbacks.
Mourinho and the Merengues’ staff must be extremely careful in handling this injury and avoid risking him unless he is absolutely fit and ready to go.
For now, Los Blancos will hope that his medical prognosis is kind. It remains to be seen what injury Courtois has suffered and how long it will keep him out.
