Thibaut Courtois declares fitness ahead of crucial clash with Arsenal

In the lead-up to their Champions League quarter-final match at the Emirates, Real Madrid faced significant injury concerns but received a boost with the return of Thibaut Courtois. The Belgian goalkeeper had missed four of the last six games due to a muscle injury sustained during the international break but confirmed his fitness after engaging in training. Coach Carlo Ancelotti expressed hope that Courtois would participate in the crucial match against Arsenal. Meanwhile, Real’s second-choice keeper Andrey Lunin was also battling a muscle injury, leading to 19-year-old Fran Gonzales stepping in during their last match against Valencia, which Real Madrid lost unexpectedly. This defeat may have provided Mikel Arteta, Arsenal's manager, with insights into Real's vulnerabilities as he prepared his team for the upcoming clash. Both teams are dealing with injury issues, particularly in their defensive line, which could factor into the match's outcome. Ancelotti emphasized the importance of experience in high-pressure situations, showcasing his rich history with the tournament. Arteta acknowledged this experience and looked to instill confidence in his players, stressing the need for an impressive performance as Arsenal aims to challenge the defending champions in a home setting.