Real Madrid confirm huge injury blow with key player set to miss Champions League clash vs Man City

Real Madrid look set to be without Thibaut Courtois for next month's Champions League clash against Manchester City after the goalkeeper underwent surgery on a fresh knee injury.

Courtois is yet to feature this season after tearing his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in August, but the 31-year-old was closing in on a return to action. He had been involved in training and stepped up the intensity of his rehabilitation in recent days.

The Belgian international was hoping to be fit shortly after the March international break and a return was expected in time for the visit of City to the Bernabeu on April 9. But an unfortunate setback means he will now be out for around four to six weeks.

After initially confirming the injury on Tuesday, a statement from the La Liga outfit on Wednesday morning read: "Our player Thibaut Courtois underwent successful surgery today for a tear in the internal meniscus of his right knee under the supervision of the Real Madrid Medical Services. Courtois will begin his recovery process in the coming days."

The timeframe also means it is highly unlikely Courtois features in the reverse leg at the Etihad, which is currently four weeks away on April 17, with concerns that he could be out for the season. It is a major blow for the Spanish side, who were hoping to welcome back a key player for what will be a crucial part of their campaign.

In his absence, Carlo Ancelotti has been playing Ukrainian goalkeeper Andriy Lunin in goal but also has the more experienced option of Kepa Arrizabalaga if needed. Neither offer the same quality or experience as Courtois, however.

Madrid have fallen victim to a cruel spate of knee injuries this season, with defensive duo David Alaba and Eder Militao both out for long periods after also suffering ACL injuries. Militao is expected to be fit in time to face City on April 9 but Alaba's return is unlikely.