Thibaut Courtois and Federico Valverde are not expected to miss a single game for Real Madrid but concerns over Franco Mastantuono’s persistent groin problem still exist.
Xabi Alonso went into November’s international break fretting over the fitness of Courtois and Valverde. The two regular starters both picked up muscular complaints during a bruising goalless draw with Rayo Vallecano on Sunday, prompting concerns over their availability during the club hiatus and beyond.
Both are expected to sit out this month’s international fixtures only to return just in time for Real Madrid’s trip to Elche on Sunday, Nov. 23.
Valverde has not traveled with Uruguay for a pair of friendlies against Mexico and the USMNT, report. The durable midfielder has been struggling with a hamstring issue but is only set to sit out 10 days, giving him ample time to make his return when La Liga resumes. The same Spanish outlet is even more confident about Courtois’s rehabilitation.
There is said to be “no doubt” about the Belgian’s involvement against Elche later this month. He will, however, miss a draining trip to Kazakhstan with his national team this week.
“Thibaut Courtois underwent the medical examination this afternoon by the RBFA medical staff,” a Belgium statement read. “He will not be available for the upcoming international matches and will return to his club for further treatment.”
Alonso has shown no desire to rotate Courtois, starting the goalkeeper in every fixture he has overseen thus far.
Carlo Ancelotti was somewhat more generous with the custodian position, showing little reluctance to turn to Andriy Lunin who won the Italian’s faith after helping Madrid reach the 2024 Champions League final while Courtois was injured.
