Carlo Ancelotti, the Real Madrid coach, explained that Thibaut Courtois' absence from the squad for the match against Rayo Vallecano was due to "a small issue" and not because of a rotation. Despite not being available for this match, the coach assured that Courtois would be in good condition for the upcoming Champions League match against Atlético Madrid on Wednesday.

Injuries and Recoveries for the Champions League

Ancelotti also confirmed that Dani Carvajal, Éder Militao, and Dani Ceballos are confirmed absentees for the return leg of the Champions League round of 16, but Courtois and Antonio Rüdiger (who missed the Rayo Vallecano match due to the flu) will be available. The coach reassured that Jude Bellingham, who returned after a two-match suspension, didn’t face any serious setbacks, and that Vinícius and Rodrygo also had minor issues after the match, but nothing major.