The Blancos hope to stay at the top of the La Liga table by beating their arch-rivals.
Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed Thibaut Courtois will stay out of action for Real Madrid’s upcoming Clasico clash against Barcelona.
Following contradicting speculations on Courtois’ sciatica problem, it is now confirmed he will miss at least one more game.
“Courtois is quite well, he feels fine. [But] he has trained very little and is not comfortable,” said the Italian boss. “He is out for tomorrow.
“He will train more continuously next week. W’ ‘ll see for next Wednesday or Sunday, he just needs training.”
Similar to Real Madrid’s recent games, Andriy Lunin will stand between the Blancos’ posts.
Meanwhile, Antonio Rudiger provides Real Madrid with a major squad boost in defence. The German star will return to action against Barcelona, but he has to use a protective mask during the game.
Real Madrid and Barca are level on points after eight matchdays in La Liga.
A possible defeat could see the Blancos lose the league’s top spot to their rivals. But Ancelotti doesn’t see the game as a “life or death” situation.
“I haven’t shown the players any videos to motivate them,” Ancelotti added. “They know their opponents well and last year’s game won’t affect it. This is another competition and another year.
“We hope to play a game that the whole world is going to see, and we want to show a good image and try to win it for our fans.
“It’s a special game, but not life or death. The season is very long. Although it’s clear that we would like to win.”
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