Real Madrid Star’s World Cup Injury Could Doom the Season Before It Begins
Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois suffered a thigh injury during Belgium's World Cup quarterfinal match against Spain. While the injury caused him to leave the field in tears, initial reports suggest the issue may not be as severe as feared.
Why it matters
Courtois is a critical player for Real Madrid, and his health status significantly impacts the club's prospects for the upcoming 2026-27 season.
Belgium goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois was in tears as he came out of the Red Devils’ quarterfinal match against Spain with a thigh injury, a nightmare sight for Real Madrid ahead of the 2026–27 season.
The 34-year-old played every second of the 2026 World Cup for his country until he sustained a problem just before the second-half hydration break against La Roja. Courtois had gone to the ground to stop a dangerous strike from Mikel Oyarzabal, and then called for the medical staff just moments later.
He tried to continue on, but he was eventually replaced in the 71st minute with Manchester United goalkeeper Senne Lammens. Courtois came off in tears, and could only watch from the bench as his replacement spilled the save that Mikel Merino buried to send Spain through to the semifinals.
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