Carlo Ancelotti Provides Update on Thibaut Courtois’ Return for Real Madrid

Real Madrid’s head coach, Carlo Ancelotti, shared promising news regarding the return of goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois from injury. Ancelotti revealed that Courtois, who has been sidelined for the entire season due to a knee ligament injury, could make his comeback as early as next week.

Courtois faced a setback in March, necessitating another knee operation, but Ancelotti expressed optimism about his recovery. With crucial fixtures on the horizon, including the Champions League semi-final against Bayern Munich and a LaLiga clash with Cadiz, Ancelotti indicated that Courtois might be available for selection.

“Andriy Lunin has won Ancelotti’s trust as Madrid’s goalkeeper in recent months,” Ancelotti mentioned. The Ukrainian goalkeeper has impressed Ancelotti, notably saving two penalties against Manchester City in the Champions League quarter-finals.

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However, Ancelotti opted not to include Jude Bellingham in the squad to face Real Sociedad due to a “stomach problem.” Bellingham, the England international, was sidelined for the fixture.

Despite Bellingham’s absence, Real Madrid continues to dominate LaLiga, holding an 11-point lead over Barcelona. Ancelotti commented on Barcelona’s decision to retain Xavi Hernandez as coach for the upcoming season, praising Xavi for his contribution to the club.

“Xavi has done a very good job at Barcelona,” Ancelotti remarked, endorsing the decision for Xavi to stay. Xavi had previously announced his intention to leave Barcelona in the summer but reversed his decision following discussions with the club.