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Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has been ruled out of Sunday’s El Clásico against Barcelona after contracting a flu-like illness, the Spanish club has announced.
The Belgian shot-stopper was declared a late withdrawal ahead of the crucial La Liga fixture, with 19-year-old Ukrainian goalkeeper Illia Voloshyn called up to replace him.
In a statement published on its website on Sunday, Real Madrid said: “Courtois is a last-minute absence due to a flu-like illness for tonight’s match between Real Madrid and Barcelona, corresponding to the tenth matchday of La Liga.
“Illia Voloshyn has been called up in his place.”
Courtois, 34, is an important figure in Madrid’s squad, and his absence presents a challenge for the team ahead of one of Spanish football’s biggest fixtures.
Barcelona head into the encounter with a six-point lead over Madrid, who sit third in the league standings. The Catalan side have won all nine of their league matches this season, collecting 27 points.
They will be seeking a 10th consecutive league victory, while Madrid will aim to close the gap at the top of the table.
Madrid have already suffered two league defeats this season, against Real Betis and Atlético Madrid, increasing the importance of Sunday’s meeting.
The hosts will also be without Brazilian forward Vinícius Júnior, who is serving a four-match domestic suspension.
Courtois’ late withdrawal adds to Madrid’s challenges as both Spanish giants prepare to battle for crucial points in the title race.
