LaLiga: Real Madrid’s Courtois suffers ACL injury

Thibaut Courtois, the goalkeeper of Real Madrid, has encountered a severe setback as he ruptured the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his left knee, a blow that is expected to sideline him for a significant portion of the upcoming season. The 31-year-old Belgium international, renowned for his prowess between the posts, is slated to undergo surgery in the imminent days to address the injury.

Courtois, who clinched the prestigious title of the world’s best goalkeeper at last year’s Ballon d’Or awards, has established himself as a linchpin of Real Madrid’s defense since his arrival in 2018. The gifted shot-stopper has celebrated La Liga triumphs twice with the Spanish giants, further cementing his reputation as a key asset to the team.

With an impressive tally of 230 appearances for Real, Courtois’ absence will be felt, especially as Real Madrid prepares to kick off their La Liga campaign against Athletic Bilbao this Saturday. His commanding presence in the goalpost has been instrumental to the team’s strategies and successes in recent seasons.

Courtois’ journey to prominence has been marked by accolades and accomplishments. Prior to his tenure with Real, he secured two Premier League titles with Chelsea and a La Liga championship with Atletico Madrid in 2014. His crowning achievement arrived in 2022 when he contributed to Real Madrid’s Champions League victory, delivering an exceptional performance that earned him the man-of-the-match title in the final against Liverpool.