Injured Real Madrid mainstay on track to return for El Clasico vs Barcelona | OneFootball

At this stage of the season, even the smallest fitness update can be important, and for Real Madrid, the latest news surrounding Thibaut Courtois could not have come at a better time.

According to Melchor Ruiz, the Belgian goalkeeper, who has been sidelined in recent weeks, is making steady progress in his recovery. 

In fact, there is growing optimism that he could return in time for the highly anticipated El Clasico on 10 May, a fixture that could be a title-defining match for Real Madrid.

What happened to Courtois?

Courtois’ injury dates back to March, when the club confirmed he had suffered a muscle issue in the rectus femoris of his right quadriceps. 

That came shortly after he was forced off during the Champions League clash against Manchester City, where he had already been struggling with adductor discomfort.

At the time, the expectation was that he would be out for approximately six weeks, a timeline that is now reaching its conclusion. 

Courtois could return in time for El Clasico. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)

However, despite nearing full recovery, he is not expected to return immediately, with the upcoming league match against Espanyol likely to come too soon.

Real Madrid struggled

What makes his absence even more noticeable is the impact it has had on the team’s results.

In the seven matches Courtois has missed so far, Real Madrid have managed to win just two, which is why his potential return for El Clasico carries such weight.

If he can recover in time, Courtois would not only bring experience back into the defensive line but also provide a psychological boost to the entire squad. 

Facing Barcelona at the Camp Nou is never straightforward, and having a player of his calibre available could prove decisive.

For now, caution remains the priority and the club is carefully managing his recovery to avoid any setbacks, especially given the importance of the upcoming fixtures.