Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has reassured fans and teammates of his fitness ahead of Tuesday’s crucial UEFA Champions League quarter-final first-leg encounter against Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium. The 32-year-old Belgian international, who has missed four of Madrid’s last six matches, revealed that he is fully recovered and ready to return to action.
“I’m fine, I had a small problem, it was a day-to-day thing,” Courtois said. “But I’ve been training for several sessions. Now we have to change our mindset for the Champions League and play a good game against a good opponent.” He also acknowledged a brief period of setback during his return from injury, stating, “I’ve had two injuries at the end of the season: the first for a knock and the second for coming back too quickly. But I’m fully recovered.”
His declaration is a timely boost for Carlo Ancelotti’s side, which has faced a shortage of experienced goalkeepers in recent weeks due to multiple injury concerns.
Injury Woes Threaten Madrid’s Stability in Goal
Real Madrid has been forced to rotate its goalkeepers due to an unfortunate streak of injuries. Courtois was sidelined for four of the club’s recent matches, including Saturday’s La Liga loss to Valencia. His deputy, Andriy Lunin, who impressed during Courtois’ absence, also suffered a leg injury during the league victory over Leganes and was subsequently left out of the squad to face Arsenal.
With both first-choice keepers unavailable last weekend, 19-year-old Fran Gonzalez made his senior debut for the club against Valencia, showing commendable composure under pressure. Gonzalez, now expected to be the backup against Arsenal, will be joined by third-choice goalkeeper Sergio Mestre, who is yet to make his first senior appearance.
Courtois’ return, therefore, brings much-needed experience and calm to Madrid’s backline as they prepare for one of their toughest challenges of the season.
Ancelotti Confident in Courtois, Praises Arteta’s Arsenal
Speaking ahead of the game, Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti expressed his confidence in Courtois’ availability, having monitored his training sessions closely. The Italian tactician is hopeful that his team will bounce back from domestic setbacks and bring their A-game to the European stage.
Ancelotti also responded to Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta’s praise in a pre-match press conference. “I thank Arteta for what he has said about me,” Ancelotti said. “He has taken this team to the top. He has built a complete team. There are not many in Europe. Some do some things well, but there aren’t many complete teams like Arsenal.”
The mutual respect between the two managers sets the stage for a tactically rich battle as Real Madrid faces an in-form Arsenal side that leads the Premier League.
Courtois’ Return Boosts Madrid’s European Ambitions
Thibaut Courtois’ return comes as a significant morale booster for the Madrid camp, given his illustrious record and commanding presence between the posts. Since joining the club in 2018, Courtois has made 273 appearances and won 12 major trophies, including two Champions League titles in 2022 and 2024.
Having previously played for Chelsea, Courtois is no stranger to English football or the Emirates Stadium. His familiarity with Premier League teams could prove vital in helping Real Madrid navigate a difficult away fixture against one of Europe’s most balanced squads.
With Lunin out and Madrid’s goalkeeping bench thin, the Belgian’s availability could be the difference-maker in what promises to be a closely contested European tie.
Arsenal vs Real Madrid: A Quarter-Final of Fine Margins
As Real Madrid travels to London for Tuesday’s blockbuster tie, both sides are expected to field near full-strength squads. Arsenal, under Mikel Arteta, have grown into a formidable European force, blending youth and experience seamlessly. The Gunners’ pace, pressing, and attacking fluidity will test Madrid’s defensive resolve and Courtois’ reflexes.
For Real Madrid, the focus will be on weathering Arsenal’s early onslaught and capitalizing on their vast Champions League experience. With Courtois back in goal, they can approach the tie with greater assurance and tactical flexibility.
The stage is set for a thrilling encounter between two of Europe’s elite clubs, and Courtois’ fitness might just be the spark Madrid needs to tip the balance in their favor.
