Wed Nov 27 22:10:00 UTC 2024: ## Real Madrid Reclaims Courtois, Fields Young Guns Against Leganés

**MADRID, SPAIN** – Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti confirmed the return of goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois for Sunday’s match against Leganés, a crucial game that could see Los Blancos close the gap on league leaders Barcelona. Courtois missed the last three matches due to a muscle injury.

Ancelotti’s starting lineup will feature several academy players, necessitated by a significant injury crisis in the squad. Four defenders – Dani Carvajal, Lucas Vázquez, Éder Militao, and David Alaba – are out, along with midfielders Aurelien Tchoueméni and Rodrygo Goes. This has paved the way for promising youngster Raúl Asencio to start, following his impressive debut against Osasuna, where he recorded an assist. Diego Aguado, versatile enough to play center-back and left-back, also makes the squad, while Fran González serves as the third goalkeeper.

The match represents a significant opportunity for Real Madrid, who can cut into Barcelona’s lead after the Catalan giants drew against Celta Vigo. Kick-off is scheduled for 12:30 pm ET (11:30 am MX). The anticipated starting lineups are:

**Leganés:** Dimitrovic, Alti, Sergio González, Nastasic, Miguel, Tapia, Neyou, Javi Hernández, Juan Cruz, Munir, and Darko.

**Real Madrid:** Courtois, Rüdiger, Asencio, Fran García, Camavinga, Ceballos, Güller, Valverde, Bellingham, Vinícius, and Mbappé.

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