Real Madrid's goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois will not play in the El Clásico against Barcelona. He has come down with a flu-like illness, the club announced on their website on Sunday.
This is a "last-minute absence." The club confirmed that 19-year-old Ukrainian goalkeeper Illia Voloshyn will take his place.
"Courtois is a last-minute absence due to a flu-like illness for tonight's match between Real Madrid and Barcelona, corresponding to the tenth matchday of La Liga."
"Illia Voloshyn has been called up in his place," the statement explained.
Courtois, who is 34, is an important player for Madrid. His absence is a blow, but the team hopes to hold their ground in this tense La Liga clash.
Barcelona is currently at the top of the league, six points ahead of Madrid, who are in third place. The Catalan team has won all nine of their league games this season, getting a total of 27 points. They aim to make this match their tenth straight win, breaking a record set by Madrid in 1968-69.
On the other hand, Madrid has lost two league matches this season, against Real Betis and Atletico Madrid.
Barcelona will also miss their Brazilian winger Vinícius Júnior, who is serving a four-game domestic ban.
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