Carlo Ancelotti left both Rodrygo and Thibaut Courtois out of Real Madrid's lineup for their El Clasico matchup against Barcelona. Rodrygo sustained a thigh injury earlier in the week during the Champions League match against Borussia Dortmund, where he assisted on the third goal before pulling a muscle. Medical tests later confirmed an injury to his right thigh, making it impossible for him to participate in El Clasico.
Thibaut Courtois was also ruled out due to a recurring adductor injury. He initially suffered this setback during Real Madrid's La Liga clash with Atlético Madrid on September 29. After recovering, Courtois returned for matches against Celta Vigo and Dortmund, but the recent Dortmund game exacerbated the injury, requiring additional time to recover. Andriy Lunin stepped in as goalkeeper for the Clasico in Courtois' absence.
With these key players sidelined, Real Madrid’s depth will be crucial as they aim to secure a win, which could push them to the top of La Liga and match Barcelona’s previous 43-game unbeaten record from 2017-2018.