Real Madrid Hit by Goalkeeper Crisis: Thibaut Courtois Sidelined for Olympiacos Trip

SPAIN - Real Madrid have been dealt a significant setback ahead of their crucial Champions League group stage fixture against Olympiacos, confirming that star goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois will miss the trip due to injury.

The club issued a statement earlier today confirming that the Belgian international has sustained a muscular issue, rendering him unavailable for the critical clash that could determine the team's standing in Group B. Courtois did not travel with the squad to Athens, leaving manager Carlo Ancelotti to select from his backup options.

The injury to Courtois is a major blow, as the goalkeeper has been in sensational form this season, keeping four clean sheets in the last six matches across all competitions. His commanding presence and shot-stopping ability will be sorely missed in the hostile atmosphere of the Georgios Karaiskakis Stadium.

With the undisputed No. 1 sidelined, the focus immediately shifts to who will fill the gloves. Andriy Lunin, the 23-year-old Ukrainian keeper, is the most likely candidate to make a rare Champions League start. Lunin has shown promise but lacks the high-stakes experience of Courtois.

The alternative is veteran goalkeeper Antonio Adán, who provides experience but has seen limited first-team action. Ancelotti’s decision will be a major talking point in the build-up to kick-off, with the pressure on the replacement to perform flawlessly.

The match against Olympiacos is not just about three points, it's about control. With the group finely poised, any lapse could be costly. Real Madrid will now need a monumental effort from their defense to protect a less-experienced keeper. This fixture is expected to be a tough, physical encounter, and Courtois' aerial command and organizational skills will be a considerable loss.