Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has dismissed suggestions that Barcelona are favourites for Sunday’s El Clásico, insisting that the outcome remains unpredictable regardless of either team’s current form.
Speaking ahead of the October 25 meeting at Spotify Camp Nou, the Belgian international expressed confidence in Real Madrid’s ability to secure a victory in the first league encounter between the Spanish rivals in the 2026-27 season.
Barcelona currently sit six points clear at the top of La Liga, having made a strong start to the campaign. However, Courtois believes the gap in the standings does not make the Catalans favourites in a fixture known for its intensity and unpredictability.
According to Fabrizio Romano, who shared the comments on X on Friday, Courtois said: “Barcelona the favourite 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.”
The Real Madrid goalkeeper acknowledged Barcelona’s performances in the league but maintained that his side have the quality to win away from home.
“They’ve performed very well in La Liga, but I have faith in our team. I believe we can go there and win,” he added.
Courtois also recognised the challenge of playing at Spotify Camp Nou but reiterated his view that neither side should be considered a clear favourite.
“It’s true that it’s their home ground; playing away always makes for a different kind of match, but I trust our team. For me, even when one side might be in better form than the other, Clásicos are always 50-50,” he said.
Sunday’s result could have significant implications for the early La Liga title race. A Real Madrid victory would help the visitors close the six-point gap, while a Barcelona win would strengthen their position at the top of the table.
With both clubs seeking an important result, Courtois’s comments underline Real Madrid’s belief that current form and home advantage may count for little when Spain’s two biggest rivals meet.
