The international Break is officially over, and all players have begun returning to their respective clubs. Real Madrid sent a total of 16 players out this month to represent their nation, and lucky enough they are less casualties than usual.
Unlike club football, country football are played at a different pace, and under completely different conditions. Real Madrid for one have seen a high injury numbers during previous international Breaks.
However, it seems this time around was a little kind to the Merengues, bar the blow to Courtois. The Belgian suffered a muscle strain, and was out of Belgium’s squad list for last sunday’s clash vs Ukraine.
Initially tipped to return on time for Saturday’s game against Leganes, things aren’t looking that much good.
Lunin Could Be Handed The Start Over Courtois
![Lunin during a match with Real Madrid | [photo: Europa Press]](https://madridmydna.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/lunin-madrid_1600_1067.webp)
The Ukrainian has proven on multiple occasions that he can be trusted in moments like this, and Saturday could be another rare opportunity for him. Unlike last season, Lunin has only managed 4 league starts at this point of the campaign.
Real Madrid currently seat level on points with Barcelona in the league and are only second due to goal difference. However, Barca has a game in hand vs osasuna tomorrow, and could go 3 points clear.
This only goes to tell that regardless of who starts between Courtois and Lunin, an “A” game is needed within the goal post. There’s no room for error at this point of the season, and Incase of any slip ups, Real Madrid will only have themselves to blame.
With that said, it’s also important to emphasize that Saturday’s opponent (Leganes) has succeeded in taking all three points against title contenders Atlético Madrid and Barca this season. One thing is for sure, it won’t be a walk in the park for Real Madrid.
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