Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois insists his side must defeat FC Barcelona at Camp Nou on Sunday, October 25, 2026, to close a six-point gap in the La Liga title race, warning that missing out on three points would severely damage their domestic campaign.
Barcelona currently holds the top spot with a six-point cushion over their Madrid counterparts, leaving the visiting side acutely aware that another stumble could put them nine points adrift of the league leaders. Real Madrid sit third in La Liga with 21 points after nine rounds of matches. Courtois noted that a brutal run also awaits his team, with four straight games away from home, and voiced his hope of winning the lot before the international break.
🗣️ @ThibautCourtois 🗣️ pic.twitter.com/00aYsUzvoa
Courtois Warns Defeat Will Hurt Title Hopes
The Belgian goalkeeper highlighted the historical weight of the fixture, pointing out that Barcelona has caused them pain in recent meetings and arguing that securing a victory on opposition turf would send a strong message. Speaking after a dominant 4-1 victory against RB Leipzig in the Champions League league phase, Courtois made it clear that attacking flair alone will not suffice against the Catalans and emphasized that defensive resilience remains paramount.
We have to close the gap with them, and we can only do that by winning. We are going there with confidence, and I hope we defend well so that don’t concede a goal.
Thibaut Courtois, Real Madrid goalkeeper
Courtois used the pre-match media availability to address the Ballon d’Or debate, noting that while Kylian Mbappé delivered an outstanding individual campaign without claiming major team trophies, Lamine Yamal secured a World Cup title and silverware during a remarkable year. He also remarked that his side has no problem praising rival players by name, setting a respectful tone before kickoff.
🫂 Thibaut Courtois: “Vini is in search of his best version, and that will come with the support of the team and fans”.“We will help him to reach his best form.” pic.twitter.com/TZroqmWqRo
Mourinho Faces Camp Nou Without Key Attackers
Real Madrid manager José Mourinho supervised final tactical preparations at Valdebebas without three key attacking figures, as Marco Asensio and Rodrygo remain sidelined with injuries while Vinicius Junior serves a suspension. Both squads arrive at Sunday’s marquee matchup dealing with personnel hurdles. The team held a new session at the Ciudad Real Madrid to continue preparing for the tenth matchday of LaLiga, where starters against Leipzig did specific recovery work while the rest of the squad performed ball circulation drills, finishing on goal, and tactical exercises.
Dani Olmo was ruled out until November following an injury sustained against Paris Saint-Germain during the week, joining Andreas Christensen, Roony Bardghji, and Eric Garcia on the sidelines. Real Madrid’s wider injury list features long-term absences, including Ferland Mendy and Raul Asencio, though the club otherwise retains most of its squad.
Mourinho Protests Recovery Disadvantage Before Kickoff
Discussing the upcoming contest with Movistar+, Mourinho pointed out a distinct recovery imbalance between the two title contenders heading into the weekend.
Full of confidence today? For the Clásico, there is no confidence, it’s a league match like any other. Even if it’s not quite the same, it would be a lie to say that it is. We are going there; for now, we are losing 24 hours of rest compared with our opponents, but we are going there.
José Mourinho, Real Madrid manager
Mourinho will address the media at 10 at Real Madrid City, and the team will leave the capital on Sunday morning for Barcelona before returning after the match.
It's THE game. International kick-off times for #ElClásico at Spotify Camp Nou ⚔️🌍 pic.twitter.com/WXGzt0SPrp
More on Camp Nou
How is Xavi Espart approaching his first Barça vs. Madrid? 🔜Calm, confident and always in his @nikefootball. pic.twitter.com/eBf0p29j8p
🚨 Thibaut Courtois on El Clásico: “Barcelona the favorite in El Clásico? In the end, you never really know until you actually play the match”.“I think we’re in good shape and feeling confident… it’s 50-50, always”. pic.twitter.com/aIp0Ps6p3h