From Courtois to Vinicius Jr: Chronicling Real Madrid’s Worrying and Growing Injury List

Injuries, much like in any occupation, pose significant challenges for athletes, especially in the world of football.

Advancements in science and technology have indeed aided in preventing and expediting the recovery process for players, yet they cannot entirely eliminate the risk of injuries in contact sports like football.

The ongoing 2023–2024 season mirrors previous ones as clubs grapple with the impact of injuries that might impede their pursuit of trophies.

A prominent example is Real Madrid, currently contending with a growing list of injury setbacks that seem almost like a recurring challenge.

Despite enduring just one defeat this season, the La Liga giants' squad faces a formidable trial ahead due to a substantial number of injured players.

Here is a rundown of the sidelined stars on Madrid's roster:

1. Thibaut Courtois - ACL injury

At the outset of the season, Real Madrid encountered a major setback as their No.1 goalkeeper, Thibaut Courtois, suffered a season-ending injury, as cited by GOAL.

This compelled the club to secure the services of Kepa Arrizabalaga from Chelsea, who seamlessly assumed the role of the primary goalkeeper.

Courtois suffered an ACL tear during training and remains sidelined, with Kepa deputizing for him. His anticipated return to club and country is slated for March 2024.

2. Eder Militao - ACL injury

Militao has been absent from the Madrid squad since sustaining an anterior cruciate ligament injury in August, per Reuters. The defender was visibly emotional when substituted during the team's La Liga opener.

Ancelotti has keenly felt the Brazilian's absence, knowing he won't return until March 2024, as Militao remains on a lengthy path to recovery.

3. Arda Guler - muscle injury

Perhaps Madrid's most concerning injury setback revolves around summer recruit Arda Guler.

Touted as the "Turkish Messi", the 18-year-old has suffered a series of injuries since joining the Bernabeu outfit, keeping him sidelined since his summer arrival, as reported by Managing Madrid.

Though yet to become a key cog in Ancelotti's squad, Guler's absence has impacted Madrid's rotation depth. A recent muscle injury is expected to keep him out of action for Madrid until early December.

4. Dani Ceballos - muscle injury

One promising inclusion on the list is the return of midfielder Dani Ceballos, whose presence brings a breath of fresh air to the team.

Back in training with Madrid, the former Real Betis talent might become a vital option for Ancelotti in midfield.

Given Los Blancos' limited options, the former Arsenal player could make a swift return after the November international break and might find himself back in action right away.

5. Kepa Arrizabalaga - muscle injury

Isn't this a curse? Courtois is out until March, and Kepa stepping in, but now the latter is also sidelined with a muscle injury that occurred before Madrid's Champions League clash against Braga, as noted by ESPN.

The Chelsea-owned goalkeeper, who is on a season-long loan at the Bernabeu, is expected to return to action at the start of December.

6. Jude Bellingham - shoulder injury

Real Madrid suffered a harsh blow as Jude Bellingham, one of Europe's most in-form players, joined their injury list.

According to FOX Sports, the 20-year-old missed their comprehensive victory against Valencia and withdrew from the England squad due to a shoulder problem.

Further tests will assess the issue's severity, and if all goes well, Bellingham could return after the international break, much to Ancelotti's hope.

7. Aurelien Tchouameni - foot injury

Following a stress fracture in his foot during the season's first El Clasico against Barcelona, Tchouameni adds to Ancelotti's midfield concerns with his absence.

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He's expected to spend at least two months in recovery, hinting at a potential return for the French international at the start of 2024.

8. Eduardo Camavinga - knee injury

Eduardo Camavinga endured a ruptured ligament in his right knee, prompting his withdrawal from the France squad during the international break. His recovery timeline indicates an absence of eight to ten weeks from club action.

This schedule implies the French player won't return until 2024, further expanding the injury concerns within the Spanish capital club.

9. Vinicius Junior - thigh injury

Most clubs dread international breaks for a reason, and Real Madrid's concerns came true during the November hiatus.

Vinicius Junior sustained a significant injury in Brazil's match against Colombia, hobbling off due to a tear in the femoral biceps of his left leg.

The zippy winger had already been sidelined for a month earlier in the season due to a thigh injury, making his absence noticeable at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Yet, this recent injury is far more severe, projecting a recovery period of two-and-a-half months for the forward.