Real Madrid deny claims Thibaut Courtois suffered anxiety attack during Champions League tie
The goalkeeper was withdrawn at half-time against Club Brugge with the Spanish giants 2-0 down
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Real Madrid have released a statement dismissing allegations Thibaut Courtois was substituted in midweek due to suffering an anxiety attack.
The goalkeeper was replaced by Alphonse Areola at half-time in the club’s 2-2 draw with Club Brugge in the Champions League.
At the point of coming off, Courtois had been criticised for the two goals his side conceded, with the Spanish giants 2-0 down.
In their club statement, Real Madrid said: “Our player has never been diagnosed with an alleged anxiety picture and therefore, that information is absolutely false.
“Thibaut Courtois has been diagnosed and treated for acute gastroenteritis with dehydration and electrolyte imbalance, which made it impossible to end Tuesday’s game against Brugge.
“The player currently responds favourably to the treatment.”
Madrid currently sit bottom of their Champions League group after two games, after losing 3-0 away at Paris Saint-Germain before their draw with Club Brugge.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments