End to Courtois saga: ruled out of Clásico

Real Madrid goalkeeper Courtois ruled out of Sunday's Clásico against Barcelona due to a viral illness.

Thibaut Courtois will miss Real Madrid's Clásico clash at Barcelona on Sunday after being ruled out with a viral infection. The Belgian goalkeeper was initially ruled out in a medical bulletin released by Real Madrid on Sunday morning, but speculation emerged around midday that he might travel to Barcelona and feature in the match. However, sources close to Courtois have confirmed he is completely unavailable due to a significant flu-like illness and will not play. His absence is a major blow for José Mourinho's side.