Thibaut Courtois is officially out for Real Madrid’s clash against Bayern Munich due to a thigh injury. He has been sidelined in recent matches, leaving a major gap ahead of this second leg in the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals. Follow Bayern Munich vs Real Madrid live with us!
The Belgian goalkeeper has been recovering from a quadriceps issue that is expected to rule him out for several weeks, forcing Madrid to rely on backup options in one of the most demanding fixtures of their season.
As Alvaro Arbeloa‘s men attempt to overturn the aggregate deficit, the focus shifts to how they adjust defensively. In a tie defined by fine margins, even a single absence can reshape the balance against Vincent Kompany‘s side. A win, tie or loss will have different implications for Real Madrid against Bayern.
When will Thibaut Courtois play again?
Thibaut Courtois is expected to return in May 2026, depending on his recovery progress. The Real Madrid goalkeeper is currently sidelined with a quadriceps injury that requires a multi-week recovery timeline.
Thibaut Courtois of Real Madrid celebrates after their sides third goal by Federico Valverde (Source: Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)
Medical reports indicate that he is targeting a comeback only if he is fully cleared in time for the closing phase of the campaign, with the club taking a cautious approach given the importance of his role in knockout competitions.
If recovery stays on track, his return could align with the final weeks of domestic action or potentially a late-stage European run, should Madrid remain in contention.
When and how did Thibaut Courtois get injured?
Courtois got injured during the Champions League quarterfinals, when he was subbed off for Lunin in the round of 16 second leg against Manchester City. The Belgian star was replaced at halftime, and hasn’t returned to action since.
Could Thibaut Courtois play in the UCL final?
Yes — but only if Real Madrid win their semifinal and advance all the way to the final. Even then, his return would depend on medical clearance and match fitness, with the club expected to avoid any risk of rushing him back into action.
His projected return timeline places him potentially available for the late stages of the season, which means a UEFA Champions League final appearance is not ruled out if his rehabilitation progresses without complications.
Thibaut Courtois’ performance this season
Thibaut Courtois has been one of Real Madrid’s most consistent performers in the 2025–26 season, delivering elite shot-stopping numbers despite a disrupted campaign due to injuries.
The Belgian goalkeeper has registered 11 clean sheets in La Liga and maintained a save percentage above 70%, reaffirming his status as one of the most reliable goalkeepers in Europe.
Even with time missed through fitness issues, he has still played more than 25 league matches, recording over 2,000 minutes and remaining a decisive presence in tight games where they have often depended on positioning to secure points.
