Real Madrid Injury Crisis: Courtois and Huijsen Ruled Out

Real Madrid face significant setbacks ahead of their vital Champions League clash against Olympiacos, as both Thibaut Courtois and Dean Huijsen have been withdrawn from the squad due to injury concerns.

Courtouis Sidelined with Viral Infection

Thibaut Courtois, Real Madrid’s first-choice goalkeeper and a cornerstone of their defense, has been ruled out of Wednesday’s Champions League tie after being diagnosed with gastroenteritis. The club confirmed the news through an official medical statement, noting that Courtois is battling a viral gastrointestinal infection and will not make the trip to Athens. Courtois left the Valdebebas training ground before the team session even began on Tuesday, highlighting the seriousness of his condition. His availability for the upcoming La Liga fixture against Girona remains uncertain and will depend on further assessment by club doctors.

Lunin Set to Step In

With Courtois unavailable, attention shifts to Andriy Lunin. The Ukrainian goalkeeper has seen limited action under head coach Xabi Alonso this season, with Courtois featuring in all 17 of Madrid’s league and Champions League matches to date. However, Lunin has previously demonstrated his quality—most notably last season, when he stepped up during Courtois’ long-term injury and played a pivotal role in Real Madrid’s double triumph in La Liga and the Champions League. Now, Lunin has a fresh opportunity to prove himself on one of Europe’s biggest stages.

Alonso’s Confidence in Lunin

Manager Xabi Alonso recently spoke about Lunin’s readiness, emphasizing the importance of always being prepared. “We have a great goalkeeper with Thibaut, but Andriy is also very capable,” Alonso said. “In December we have the Copa del Rey, and we’ll see what decision we make. But he must feel ready. And he is.”

Defensive Crisis Deepens with Huijsen Out

Real Madrid’s woes are compounded by the absence of young defender Dean Huijsen, who also missed training and has been left out of the traveling squad. Huijsen’s fitness issues have contributed to a defensive shortage that already includes Antonio Rudiger, David Alaba, and Eder Militao. This leaves Raul Asencio as the sole fit, natural centre-back for the Olympiacos game.

Possible Defensive Alternatives

Head coach Alonso may be forced to reshuffle his lineup, with Alvaro Carreras a potential option to partner Asencio in central defense. Ferland Mendy, returning from a long-term injury, could also be called upon for an emergency role. There is speculation that promising Real Madrid Castilla players such as Mario Rivas and Diego Aguado could be drafted into the first team. Aguado, in particular, has already made a senior appearance under former manager Carlo Ancelotti, offering some hope for stability at the back.

Mounting Pressure for a Positive Result

After a blistering start to the season with 13 wins in their first 14 matches, Real Madrid’s momentum has slowed following a loss to Liverpool and draws against Rayo Vallecano and Elche. The injury crisis has only added to the scrutiny on Alonso, who now faces mounting pressure to guide his depleted side to victory against Olympiacos. Anything less than three points in Athens will likely intensify the criticism surrounding the club and their recent performances.

Key Match Details

The crucial Champions League clash between Olympiacos and Real Madrid is scheduled for November 26, 2025, at 21:00 local time, at Georgios Karaiskakis Stadium. With so many absentees, all eyes will be on Real Madrid’s ability to adapt and overcome adversity.

Opinion: Time for Madrid’s Depth to Shine

Real Madrid’s injury troubles ahead of the Olympiacos match are a true test of the squad’s depth and resilience. While losing stalwarts like Courtois and Huijsen is a blow, this scenario presents a valuable chance for understudies such as Lunin and Castilla talents to step up. Champions are forged in difficult moments, and overcoming this adversity could be a defining point in Madrid’s campaign. The club’s ability to adapt, trust in youth, and draw on its winning mentality may be what carries them through this challenging period. For more news on Real Madrid and football worldwide, visit for more news.