After their stunning victory over Borussia Dortmund, Carlo Ancelotti was left with two pieces of bad news. Before the Clasico clash with Barcelona, however, Real Madrid can look forward to some good news.
Things are busy at Real Madrid. Coming off the back of an outstanding performance against Borussia Germany on the third day of the new Champions League format, Carlo Ancelotti’s team have learned of injuries to Rodrygo Goes, who has a hamstring problem in his left leg, and Thibaut Courtois, who has an adductor muscle problem. While these two stalwarts of the team are out of action for Saturday’s Clasico against Barcelona at the Santiago BernabĂ©u, Madrid have two pieces of good news to smile about.
Firstly, the return of Brahim Diaz
The Moroccan international has been a key component of the Madrid squad for the last few months and has been back in full training since Monday. Injured and out of action since September 14, Brahim Diaz, who had been ruled out for three months, is already back on his feet. After a swift recovery, the 25-year-old has rejoined his team-mates for collective training. According to reports from English media outlet The Athletic, the attacking midfielder should be in the squad to face Barcelona in the Clasico on Saturday.
This is excellent news for Real Madrid, who will have a major reinforcement in the shape of Rodrygo Goes. With a style of play similar to that of the Brazilian striker, Brahim should bring his speed and dribbling ability to this important match in the La Liga title race. In addition to this good news for Carlo Ancelotti, Madrid can rest easy despite the injury to goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois.
Lunin, already used to big games
Andriy Lunin, who has been the Belgian keeper’s understudy for the past few seasons, will soon be back in action. Having already enjoyed a fine season last year in the absence of Courtois, the 25-year-old Ukrainian has already played in two matches this year, notably against Lille and Villarreal. Having put in some fine performances in those games last month, Lunin will once again have the chance to show his worth against the Catalans, whom he faced twice last season.
With the experience he gained last season, when he played a huge number of games, Lunin should be well placed to keep goal for Real Madrid on Saturday. After the big win over BVB, Madrid’s defence should be much more determined to prevent a number of dangerous balls from falling to their young keeper in goal.
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