Real Madrid superstar was in line to start vs Athletic Club before fresh injury setback | OneFootball

Real Madrid have been rocked by Thibaut Courtois’ fresh injury that will once again force the goalkeeper back to the sidelines.

The Belgian international had suffered a serious ACL injury at the start of the season, which had kept him out on the sidelines for the entirety of the season so far.

Courtois, though, was recovering well and was supposed to get back to action after the international break.

But just before this week’s internal friendly game, which was originally hosted by Real Madrid in order to fast-track the recovery of Courtois, the Belgian picked up a fresh knee injury.

Real Madrid’s initial plan with Courtois

A recent report from MARCA has offered more insights into Real Madrid’s initial plans with Courtois, just before the goalkeeper picked up a fresh injury.

Courtois would have started vs Athletic Club before injury. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)

It appears coach Carlo Ancelotti wanted to start Courtois in the next league game against Athletic Club.

Real Madrid are slated to take on the Basque outfit on March 31. By organising international friendlies, the club wanted both Courtois and Eder Militao to get back to the pitch in this vital league encounter.

When will Courtois return?

While Eder Militao has shown positive signs, Courtois’ fresh injury required surgery which was done on Wednesday. Following that, he is expected to be out for two months.

Real Madrid are unlikely to take any unnecessary risks with Courtois’ fitness this time around, especially given the fact that Andriy Lunin has done an excellent job of replacing the Belgian.

Real Madrid have even begun talks to extend the contract of the Ukrainian international, who looks set to remain the club’s No. 1 choice between the sticks for the remainder of the campaign.