Key Real Madrid veteran a serious doubt for Atletico Madrid clash; tests tomorrow | OneFootball

Real Madrid came away with a 2-1 victory (5-1 aggregate) against Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium on Tuesday night, making it through to the quarterfinals of the UEFA Champions League.

Vinicius Jr. was on target twice for the Spanish capital club on what was a memorable night for Alvaro Arbeloa & co.

However, there was one blot for Los Blancos from the night as first-choice goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois had to be withdrawn at half-time due to discomfort in his right adductor.

A serious doubt for Atletico Madrid

Building on that, journalist Alberto Pereiro now reports that Courtois is a serious doubt to face Atletico Madrid in the derby later this weekend.

The Belgian veteran will undergo tests and scans tomorrow at which point a clearer picture should emerge, but as things stand, his involvement against the Rojiblancos is seen as a major doubt.

Courtois could miss the derby vs Atletico. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)

If so, this comes as a serious blow for Real Madrid, considering how important a player Courtois is for the team.

The 33-year-old shot-stopper has been one of the Merengues’ most consistent top performers this season along with Kylian Mbappe.

So far, Courtois has made 41 appearances in all competitions this season, keeping 15 clean sheets, and conceding only 39 goals. In fact, before his substitution last night, he made a top save to keep Manchester City out.

Real Madrid have a reliable alternative in Andriy Lunin, who did well after stepping in against Manchester City last night.

However, not having Courtois available for a derby which is a must-win game in the context of the title race will be a gutting blow for Arbeloa and Real Madrid.